Media Wire Express Correspondent
In a distressing turn of events, an aircraft carrying Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine other passengers went missing on Monday.
The Malawi Defense Force aircraft departed from Lilongwe at 9:17 a.m. and was scheduled to land at Mzuzu International Airport at 10:02 a.m. However, all communication with the aircraft ceased shortly after departure, prompting immediate search and rescue Operation
The last known location of the aircraft was near the Chikangawa Forest, a dense and challenging area for search teams. Ground and aerial units from the Malawi Defense Force have been tirelessly scouring the forest since the disappearance, but as of Tuesday morning, no signs of the aircraft have been found
President Lazarus Chakwera has expressed profound concern and has canceled his planned trips to the Bahamas and Switzerland to oversee the rescue operations. In a statement, President Chakwera assured the nation that all possible resources were being deployed to locate the Vice President and the other passengers
Among those on board the ill-fated flight were several high-profile individuals, including former First Lady Callista Mutharika. Initial reports confirm that Mrs. Mary Chilima, the Vice President’s wife, was not on the flight, providing some relief amid the escalating concerns
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The incident has sparked significant anxiety and speculation within Malawi. The newly formed People’s Development Party (PDP) has called for more transparency from the government regarding the disappearance. The PDP has urged the authorities to provide regular updates to the public and ensure that all efforts are made to locate the missing aircraft
The Vice President, known for his dynamic leadership and anti-corruption stance, has been a pivotal figure in Malawian politics. His sudden disappearance has not only caused political tremors but also raised concerns about the stability and continuity of the current administration’s policies
As the search continues into its second day, international support has begun to mobilize. Neighboring countries, including Zambia and Tanzania, have offered their assistance, highlighting regional solidarity during this crisis
The Malawian nation remains hopeful and united, awaiting any news about their Vice President and the others aboard the missing aircraft.
