By Burnett Munthali
In the wake of the tragic aeroplane crash that claimed the life of Vice President Saulos Chilima, numerous questions remain unanswered, casting a shadow of doubt over the official narratives provided by the authorities. In a national broadcast, President Lazarus Chakwera described the crash site as deep within the Chikangawa Forest, emphasizing the challenging terrain that hampered search and rescue operations. However, subsequent reports have raised significant discrepancies regarding the location of the crash.
According to a German report, the crash site is not situated in a remote area but is instead just 700 meters from human settlements and only two kilometers from the M1 road. This revelation prompts a critical question: why were Malawians misled about the location of the crash? The implications of such misinformation are profound, undermining public trust in government communications during crises.
Moreover, the circumstances surrounding the removal of Chilima’s personal belongings after the crash add to the mystery. Reports indicate that valuables including a watch, wedding ring, rosary, bracelet, and mobile phone were taken from his body. The motives behind these actions are unclear, and the public deserves transparency regarding who was responsible for this removal and for what purpose.
Of particular note is the detail from an autopsy report, which was leaked, indicating that Chilima was holding his rosary in a prayer position at the moment of impact. If this was the case, who removed it from his grip, and why? Such actions raise suspicions of foul play and further fuel speculation about the events leading up to the crash.
Further complicating matters, reports suggest that Chilima’s mobile phone was tampered with, including a reset of the clock and the potential deletion of SOS messages. This could indicate an attempt to obscure critical information regarding the timing of the crash, raising the stakes for a thorough investigation.
The need for a credible and independent commission of inquiry has become increasingly urgent. The Malawian public requires assurance that the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident will be investigated without bias. A commission composed of representatives from various political parties, including the MCP, DPP, UDF, UTM, PP, and Aford, would help ensure that the inquiry is perceived as fair and transparent.
Previous investigations, such as the one led by retired Supreme Court Justice Singini, have left many feeling disillusioned. To restore faith in the inquiry process, individuals like Catholic Bishop Martin Mtumbuka should be considered for involvement, as his integrity could lend credibility to the findings.
Malawi’s history teaches us that the truth often takes time to emerge. The delayed revelations about the “Mwanza Car Accident” serve as a stark reminder that the pursuit of truth is not always straightforward. As the nation grapples with the loss of its vice president, the UTM party and its supporters are encouraged to keep the light of inquiry burning, not only in their hearts but also publicly during political rallies.
Let us remember that this tragedy is not solely a political event; it has deeply affected the families of those lost and the nation at large. As we seek answers, we must remain vigilant and demand accountability. The truth surrounding the Chikangawa aeroplane crash should be unveiled not just for the sake of justice for Chilima but for the integrity of Malawi’s political system and the trust of its people.
As citizens visit the crash site, it may transform into a place of remembrance, symbolizing the need for clarity and truth. The debris scattered across the location serves as a stark reminder of the lives lost and the urgent need for answers. Until then, the questions linger, and the call for a thorough inquiry remains imperative.
