The planned two-day installation ceremony of GVH Khozapi Mtonga in Mpherembe, Mzimba, could be cancelled or postponed following the death of a 31-year-old man who was attacked and killed by a lion.
The incident has raised security concerns ahead of the ceremony, scheduled for October 2 and 3, which will also feature music performances by Malawi musician Skeffa Chimoto.
However, the event’s organiser and sponsor, Owen Mtonga, says the ceremony will proceed as planned.
The victim has been identified as Clement Munthali, 31, of Kamangadazi Village in Ekhweleni, Traditional Authority Mpherembe.
Kafukule Police Station Public Relations Officer Thomas Jamitala has confirmed the incident.
Director of National Parks and Wildlife Brighton Kumchedwa also confirmed the death, saying wildlife rangers are hunting for the lion, which escaped from Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve.
“The rangers are on the ground hunting the lion. The only problem is misinformation.
Yesterday, the information was that the lion was moving towards Ekwendeni, while the beast was at Kazuni area.
Unfortunately, this morning the lion has killed a member of the community,” said Kumchedwa.
Meanwhile, Senior Chief Mpherembe has confirmed that traditional dances will form part of the planned installation ceremony.
The latest development has heightened concerns about the safety of people expected to attend the two-day event as authorities and wildlife officials continue efforts to locate and contain the lion.
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