Malawi Mourns Together, but in Different Places
Today, Malawi is in deep mourning. The country is remembering Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima and eight others who died in a military plane crash on June 10, 2024.
Two memorial events are happening:
- One in Nsipe, Ntcheu, led by Dr. Chilima’s family and his political party (UTM).
- Another in Nkhata Bay, led by President Lazarus Chakwera as the official government ceremony.
These two separate events show how painful and emotional this loss has been for the nation. But they also show that people grieve in different ways. President Chakwera has shown understanding and kindness in handling this difficult time.
A Leader Who Shows Care
Since the accident, President Chakwera has shown not just leadership—but care and respect. He personally visited the families of the other eight victims to comfort them and offer government support. Dr. Chilima’s family chose not to meet with him, but the President still respected their choice.
Even when people criticized him or said hurtful things, President Chakwera stayed calm. He did not respond with anger or blame. He stayed silent and shared the sadness with the rest of the country.
Respecting the Chilima Family
The President has also shown support in other ways. When the Chilima Foundation was started, he attended the launch and gave his blessing. He stood beside the Vice President’s widow and children to honour Dr. Chilima’s memory.
He also respected the family’s decision to hold their own memorial in Ntcheu, separate from the government’s. He knows that grief is personal, and every family has its own way of saying goodbye.
A Memorial for Everyone
The government’s memorial today in Nkhata Bay is not just for one person—it is for all nine people who died. It is meant to bring all Malawians together.
Many important people and groups are attending:
- Families of all the victims
- Traditional leaders
- Church leaders from the Catholic Church
- Public Affairs Committee (PAC)
- Vice President Michael Usi
- The Leader of the Opposition
This shows that the event is not about politics. It is about healing as a nation.
No Politics in Pain
What many people respect most is that President Chakwera has not used this sad event for political gain. He has not tried to tell only one side of the story. He has quietly allowed everyone—whether in government or opposition—to grieve in their own way.
He has not tried to control how people feel. Instead, he has shown that being a good leader means listening, respecting others, and standing together even when it’s hard.
A President Who Understands the Moment
Malawi is still hurting. Dr. Chilima’s memory will stay alive in every part of the country. And during this difficult time, President Chakwera has shown true leadership—gentle, humble, and full of heart.
His actions show what it means to lead a hurting nation—with kindness, not power.
