President Lazarus Chakwera and First Lady Monica Chakwera today led thousands of Malawians in a solemn memorial ceremony in Mzimba District to honour the late Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and eight others who perished in a tragic plane crash on June 10, 2024, at Nthungwa Village in Nkhatabay District.
Speaking during the emotionally charged gathering, President Chakwera described the fallen individuals as “patriotic, hardworking, and dedicated citizens who served the Republic of Malawi tirelessly.” He noted that the memorial event was meant to celebrate their lives, acknowledge their contributions, and provide collective healing for a grieving nation.
In a significant gesture of remembrance, President Chakwera announced that the six-lane road currently under construction in Lilongwe will be named after Dr. Saulos Chilima, cementing his legacy in the heart of the capital.
Earlier, Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda revealed plans by the government to construct a memorial park at the crash site in Nkhatabay. He emphasized that the park will serve as a place of reflection and national remembrance for the nine individuals who lost their lives in service to the country.
The ceremony marks one year since the tragic incident, which shocked the nation and left a lasting void in Malawi’s political and civic landscape.
