By Sella Singini and Tabbu Kitta Kauye
Lilongwe, June 16, mana: President Lazarus Chakwera has assured Malawians that a thorough and transparent independent investigation will be conducted in order to establish the cause of the plane crash that claimed the life of Vice President (VP), Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others at Chikangawa forest in Mzimba district on Monday.
Chakwera made the assurance on Sunday during a funeral ceremony for the late VP that took place at Bing stadium in Lilongwe.
In his eulogy, the Malawi leader said he has already asked other countries to assist with the investigation.
“I understand that Malawi Defence Force (MDF) has its own protocols of conducting investigations, however that alone is not enough. Therefore, as of now it is necessary to involve independent investigators so that all Malawians including me should have solid answers on what really happened.
“I humbly implore all Malawians to remain calm and patient, as we will be waiting for the findings of the investigation. I also want to assure you that every Malawian will know the findings of the investigation once completed” he said.
The president noted that the four years he worked with Chilima, he has learnt the virtues of patience, forgiveness, peace and hard work.
In his eulogy, Chilima’s first-born son, Sean, described his late father as role model, leader and a great family man.
“My dad used to start his day with morning prayers at an altar in the house, then he would join the 6 o’clock mass at church, he would then exercise before starting his official work. This attest to how devoted my father was to his faith” he said.
The late VP`s son said the numerous tributes and stories that Malawians are sharing about his father, is a testimony of a great man, his late father was.
In his address president of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi, Archbishop George Tambala, said Chilima’s teachings will continue to inspire the young people to strive for the best.
Tambala said Chilima has taught the country to believe in the impossible.
He described Chilima, as a humble man, who served God with passion, and could do any church tasks, including mopping in the church regardless of his status in the society.
Late Chilima is expected to be laid to rest on Monday, 17th June 2024, in his home village in Nsipe, Ntcheu.
He was born on 12th February 1973 and is survived by a wife and two children.
