President Chakwera calls for support for Malawians in SA after fire
The fire claimed the lives of at least 74 people, including 20 Malawians, and left numerous others injured.
Lilongwe, Malawi — President Lazarus Chakwera has called upon the Malawian community in South Africa to stand together and support one another during the difficult aftermath of a tragic fire incident in Johannesburg, South Africa, writes Vincent Gunde.
The fire claimed the lives of at least 74 people, including 20 Malawians, and left numerous others injured.
The confirmed figure of 20 Malawian victims was established through their National Identity Cards, but there are likely additional foreigners, including Malawians, who may not have been documented and were staying in South Africa without legal status, and who also perished or were injured in the incident.
President Chakwera expressed his deep sadness and condolences to the bereaved families and extended best wishes to those receiving treatment in South African hospitals.
He also commended the heroic efforts of the rescue teams who responded to the tragedy.
In a message of sympathy posted on social media, President Chakwera stated, "We stand in solidarity with South Africa and commend the heroic efforts of rescue teams."
Comrade Sheikh Alhaji Jumbe, President of the Chilungamo Party, also conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims, emphasizing that the loss of fellow citizens is a loss for the entire nation.
He expressed his condolences by saying, "Their loss is the loss of the nation, we all belong to God and to Him, we shall all return. May their souls rest in eternal peace."
Additionally, the Council of Muslim Theologians, Jamiatul Ulama of South Africa (JUSA), expressed its sorrow at the loss of many identified as Muslims among the deceased. JUSA extended its sympathy to the families and friends who lost loved ones in the tragic incident.
The council also offered prayers for the swift recovery of those who sustained injuries.
JUSA has opened its doors to members of the deceased's families and friends, inviting them to reach out to the council for any assistance required for the funerals of their loved ones.
Assistance can be obtained by contacting Muhammad at 0794902098 or Ali at 0717002040 at South Africa's Burial Centre.
The tragic fire incident in Johannesburg has deeply affected both the Malawian and South African communities, prompting an outpouring of support and condolences from leaders and organisations.