By Vincent Gunde
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has urged the Malawian community in South Africa to support one another during this difficult time of the tragic death of at least 74 people including 20 Malawians and injury of scores of others when fire gutted a building in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The figure of 20 Malawians who have died has been known because of their National Identity Cards(IDs) but there are many foreigners including Malawians who are not documented and are staying in South Africa illegally died or injured.
President Chakwera says he and the First Lady Madam Monica Chakwera are deeply saddened by the tragic death of people conveying their condolences to the bereaved families and best wishes to those receiving treatment in hospitals in South Africa.
“We stand in solidarity with South Africa and commend the heroic efforts of rescue teams,” reads Chakwera’s condolence message on his Facebook wall.
President of Chilungamo Party Comrade Sheikh Alhaji Jumbe has sent his condolences to bereaved families of fellow citizens who have lost lives in the fire tragedy in Johannesburg saying he and the party are with families who have lost their sons and daughters in this tragedy.
‘’Their loss is the loss of the nation, we all belong to God and to him we shall all return, may their souls rest in eternal peace,” reads Comrade Alhaji Jumbe’s eulogies on the wall.
Meanwhile, a Council of Muslim theologians Jamiatul Ulama of South Africa (JUSA) says it has noted that many among the deceased are being identified as Muslims saying their hearts go to families and friends who have lost their loved ones in this tragedy.
‘’We are praying that those who have sustained injuries recover soon,’’… reads the statement on the wall.
JUSA has invited members of the deceased families and friends to approach the council in South Africa’s Burial Centre, for any assistance that will be required for funerals of their beloved ones by calling Muhammad 0794902098 and Ali 0717002040.
