By Burnett Munthali
It has taken over four months—139 days, to be exact—for the government of Malawi to establish a Commission of Inquiry into the Chikangawa plane crash that claimed the life of former Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others. From the fateful day of June 10, 2024, to the announcement on October 25, the delay has left Malawians wondering: why did it take so long for such a critical investigation to begin?
This extended wait raises serious questions about Malawi’s commitment to justice, transparency, and accountability in the face of tragedy. Public outcry for an inquiry began almost immediately after the crash, with citizens and officials alike demanding answers. Yet, the government appeared hesitant, a stance that has resulted in skepticism, mistrust, and frustration among Malawians.
Aviation disasters are always followed by urgent calls for accountability, both to honor the victims and to ensure future safety. Following the crash, there was a collective push for a prompt and thorough investigation. In Malawi, however, this did not happen. The government’s prolonged silence only fueled speculation, with rumors circulating about potential political interference, technical difficulties, and questions over the appointment of an objective, well-qualified commission.
As time went on, Malawians watched with dismay as the tragedy seemingly slipped from the government’s list of priorities. The nation’s attention was diverted to other pressing matters, including political maneuvers for the upcoming 2025 general elections. For many, this delay felt like a dismissal of the tragedy—a clear message that the lives lost in the crash were not being given the seriousness they deserved.
Establishing a commission immediately after the crash could have restored some public trust, ensuring citizens that the government was dedicated to a transparent investigation. Instead, the delayed response has eroded confidence in the state’s willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. The late formation of this commission has left people questioning whether political interests took precedence over a genuine search for accountability.
Further compounding public frustration is the lack of communication from officials during this delay. Regular updates or statements from government officials acknowledging public concerns could have provided reassurance. But the extended silence only fostered suspicion, leading many to believe that the delay was intentional.
The commission, now headed by Justice Jabbar Alide and including prominent figures such as Monsignor Patrick Thawale, Bishop Mary Nkosi, and Dr. Sunduzwayo Madise, appears to be composed of highly respected figures from various fields. But the lack of technical experts, particularly in aviation safety and accident investigation, raises questions about the commission’s capacity to deliver the rigorous inquiry this tragedy demands.
Furthermore, many feel that the voices of the families of the victims should be directly represented on the commission. Their involvement would not only lend an important perspective but would also show the government’s sensitivity to the profound loss and pain experienced by the families. In contrast, the exclusion of family representatives appears dismissive and impersonal, leaving some to wonder if the commission can truly deliver justice.
The plane crash at Chikangawa has exposed deeper issues within Malawi’s political and judicial systems. While an inquiry commission is now finally in place, the delay reveals systemic weaknesses in Malawi’s response mechanisms to national crises. It’s not just about establishing an inquiry—it’s about creating a culture where timely, transparent investigations are the norm, not an afterthought.
The delay in forming this commission could set a troubling precedent. Will other crises receive similar treatment, with delayed inquiries only established when public pressure reaches unbearable levels? If the nation cannot respond swiftly and transparently to a tragedy of this magnitude, what does that say about the government’s ability to handle future crises?
The commission is expected to deliver its findings by November 30, 2024, a mere month from its inception. Whether it can accomplish this task and do so with the depth required is yet to be seen. The mandate to investigate the root causes of the crash and recommend measures for the future is a heavy one, especially given the public’s lack of confidence.
Malawians want answers, accountability, and assurances that measures will be implemented to prevent a recurrence. Most of all, they want to know that the government values their lives enough to respond promptly and transparently when tragedy strikes.
As the commission embarks on this investigation, it must operate with a sense of urgency and openness. Regular updates on its progress and findings will be critical to repairing the public trust that has been eroded by months of inaction. In delivering a thorough, honest report, the commission has the opportunity to set an example for future governance in Malawi. It’s a chance to show that the government can learn from its mistakes, that it can prioritize the needs of the people, and that it’s capable of making amends when those priorities are misplaced.
In conclusion, the establishment of this commission, delayed as it was, represents a pivotal moment for Malawi. The outcome will determine more than just the cause of a tragic crash; it will influence the way Malawians view their leaders and their nation’s commitment to justice. The Chikangawa plane crash inquiry has been a long time coming—but whether it delivers the truth and accountability that Malawians deserve remains to be seen.