Opposition Leader Calls for Unity After Malawi Vice President's Death
George Chaponda, the leader of the opposition in parliament, said Malawians should mourn Chilima and the others while putting aside political differences.
LILONGWE, Malawi— As condolences continue to pour in following the death of Malawi's Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others in a plane crash, the leader of the opposition in parliament has called for national solidarity and unity, writes Edward Chikwanda.
George Chaponda, the leader of the opposition in parliament, said Malawians should mourn Chilima and the others while putting aside political differences.
"As a nation, let's mourn the vice president and nine others in solidarity and let's put aside our political differences as we continue remembering the departed souls," Chaponda said.
"Chilima was a strong man who believed much in making sure that the country is developing. For instances, the reforms were part and parcel of his brainchild."
Chaponda appealed to the government to provide increased funding to security agencies to purchase advanced equipment to assist during tragedies. He urged legislators to swiftly approve higher security budgets.
Social commentator Ceazar Kondowe echoed the call for national mourning and support for the victims' families, saying "the departed souls were much devoted in this country."
The wreckage from the plane carrying Chilima was found Tuesday in the Chikangawa forest area after President Lazarus Chakwera confirmed the devastating news in a national address.