By Linda Kwanjana
In the aftermath of the tragic death of Malawi’s Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima, the political landscape has been rocked by controversy and public outrage. The United Transformation Movement (UTM) leaders, in a recent press briefings on 12 and 13 June, 2024, have found themselves at the center of the storm due to their provocative statements.
During the briefing, UTM leaders accused two cabinet ministers of negligence, alleging that their failure to timely assist the people involved in the fatal plane crash. They also charged President Lazarus Chakwera with misleading the nation, claiming he falsely asserted that the Malawi Defence Force was actively searching for the plane.
The UTM leaders went further, expressing gratitude to those who circulated graphic images of the crash, suggesting these images might provide clues as to whether the crash was accidental or orchestrated.
These incendiary remarks have sparked widespread indignation. The tension was palpable on June 16th, when the vice president’s body was transported to Ntcheu for burial. Grief and anger boiled over, leading to violent confrontations. Mourners, incensed by the insinuations of foul play, blocked and stoned the funeral convoy, reflecting their belief that the crash was a planned act as suggested by UTM leaders.
The backlash has led to a significant shift in the stance of UTM members, who now regret their earlier statements. The inflammatory comments have not only incited violence but also marred the mourning period of a national leader.
In a bid to restore calm, President Chakwera addressed the nation, sharing in the collective grief and promising a thorough investigation. He assured Malawians that an external investigator would be engaged to probe the crash’s cause, ensuring that the truth is uncovered.
As Malawi mourns the loss of Vice President Chilima, the need for unity and truth has never been more critical. The coming days will be pivotal in determining the nation’s ability to heal from this tragedy and the political turmoil it has engendered.
