Nearly two years after the plane crash that killed Vice-President Saulos Chilima and eight others, Parliament has announced a fresh investigation into one of Malawi’s most painful national tragedies, with full inquiries expected to begin by mid-May.
In a statement released today, chairperson of the Parliamentary ad-hoc committee on the crash, Walter Nyamilandu Manda, said preparations for the probe have now been completed and investigators are ready to move into the next phase.
“The committee has now finalised critical planning stages and is prepared to commence investigations by mid-May,” said Nyamilandu Manda.
He said the committee is committed to conducting a credible, transparent, and thorough process aimed at uncovering the circumstances surrounding the June 10, 2024 military aircraft crash.
According to the statement, groundwork already completed includes setting investigation objectives, drafting terms of reference, and developing the methodology that will guide the inquiry.
The fresh probe is expected to include safety audits, forensic examinations, post-mortem reviews, site visits, and the collection of documentary and physical evidence connected to the crash.
The Malawi Defence Force aircraft went down while en route to Mzuzu, killing Chilima and eight others on board.
The disaster sent shockwaves across the country and triggered a period of national mourning.Since then, calls for greater clarity and accountability have continued from citizens, political leaders, and civil society organisations.
Parliament has also appealed to members of the public with relevant information to come forward, assuring witnesses that all submissions will be treated confidentially.
Nyamilandu Manda said the committee remains focused on producing findings that Malawians can trust.
