By Burnett Munthali
Retired High Court Judge Dunstain Mwaungulu has sharply criticized the findings of the Commission of Inquiry into the plane crash that claimed the lives of former Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others. The retired judge described the report as “skewed, amateurish, and an attempt to evade deeper accountability.”
In a statement issued through the Centre for Law and Policy, Mwaungulu expressed concerns over the inquiry’s failure to pursue criminal and civil culpability in the tragic incident. He argued that the report appeared to focus more on procedural narratives rather than addressing potential negligence or wrongdoing by those responsible for flight safety and management.
“The findings do little to inspire public confidence,” Mwaungulu stated. “Accountability should go beyond the surface, delving into the systemic issues and identifying individuals or entities responsible for the loss of life. Justice demands nothing less.”
Mwaungulu further called on relevant authorities to initiate thorough investigations that could lead to criminal charges and civil suits against parties found to have contributed to the crash. He emphasized that the deaths of high-ranking officials and others on board deserve a more rigorous examination to prevent future tragedies and ensure justice for the victims.
The retired judge’s comments have reignited public debate about the effectiveness of Malawi’s inquiry commissions, with many questioning whether such bodies are adequately equipped to deliver impartial and detailed findings.
The Commission of Inquiry, established shortly after the crash, has faced criticism for allegedly omitting crucial details in its report, leaving many unanswered questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
As calls for justice grow louder, the nation waits to see whether Mwaungulu’s demands for criminal and civil investigations will be heeded by relevant stakeholders. For now, the report’s conclusions remain a contentious issue in Malawi’s quest for transparency and accountability.
