A tragic incident occurred during the funeral procession of Malawi’s late Vice-President Saulos Chilima, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including a pregnant woman, and injuring twelve others. Witnesses recounted that as the convoy carrying Mr. Chilima’s body passed through certain areas, clashes erupted between locals, the police, and soldiers accompanying the procession.
The accident occurred when a private vehicle, not part of the official convoy, veered off the road while trying to avoid the funeral procession, striking a group of mourners. This incident transpired amidst tensions along the route, with some mourners demanding the convoy stop so they could view the coffin.
Mr. Chilima, who passed away in a plane crash a week earlier, was being transported for burial in his hometown of Ntcheu. The funeral procession faced disruptions as some individuals threw stones at government vehicles and officials.
In response to these events, Mr. Chilima’s UTM party condemned the violence and urged supporters to refrain from destructive actions, emphasizing the late Vice-President’s advocacy for peace.
Despite the tragedy, Mr. Chilima’s funeral service at the national stadium drew tens of thousands of mourners, reflecting his special connection with the people, particularly the youth. His untimely death has left a significant impact on Malawian politics, with his party forming a coalition government with President Chakwera’s after the 2020 elections.
However, tensions remain as some of Mr. Chilima’s supporters criticize the government’s handling of events leading to his death, evident during President Chakwera’s eulogy at the funeral service, where he faced vocal dissent.
Moving forward, President Chakwera has pledged a thorough investigation into the plane crash that claimed Mr. Chilima’s life and those of eight others.