Malawi vice president Soulos Chilima. Photo/courtesy.
The president of Malawi Lazarus Chakwera has announced a 21-day mourning period beginning Tuesday in honour of Vice President Saulos Chilima who died in a plane crash on Monday.
Secretary to the President and Cabinet Colleen Zamba said details about Chilima’s funeral will be communicated.
The pane carrying Chilima took at Lilongwe heading to Mzuzu International Airport. However, the plane went off the radar immediately after departure according to Malawi Defense Forces. Nine other official who were on board also died.
Several leaders have sent their condolences messages including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Tanzania’s president Sameer Suluhu.
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Kalonzo described Chilima as a statesman and a highly respected economist.
“Mr President (Chakwera) and Dear Brother, I was deeply moved and saddened by the news of the tragic passing of vice president Dr Saulos Chilima and nine souls who were onboard a military aircraft,” Kalonzo said.
He added, “Dr Chilima was an exceptional statesman, highly respected economist ,and advocate for public sector reforms.”
Tanzania’s president said she received the news of Chilima’s tragic demise with great sadness.
“On behalf of the government and people of the United Republic of Tanzania, I convey our deepest condolences to His Excellency President Lazarus Chakwera and the people of Republic of Malawi, family, friends. May his soul rest in peace. Amen,” Suluhu said.
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