The United States government has offered its condolences to Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera following the death of the country’s Vice-President Saulos Chilima and eight others in a plane crash on Monday, June 10, 2024
The US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken conveyed the condolence message to Malawi president, Dr. Lazarus Chakwera in a telephone.
“Please be assured of the condolence and support of the US Government and US President Joe Biden for you, the Malawi Government, and the Malawian people during this difficult time,” Mr. Blinken consoled the Malawi leader.
Blinken, in further condoling President Chakwera said: “The US knew those who had passed away “were not only senior officials of your government, but also individuals you knew and cared for personally.”
President Chakwera expressed his gratitude for the US’ support, saying that the solidarity of a trusted friend like the US “goes a long way in assuaging the anguish that this tragedy has caused”.
The plane crash occurred on Monday, June 10, 2024, killing all on board, including former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri, the late vice president’s aides, a medic and three aircraft crew members who includes a pilot and his assistant and an aircraft engineer.
President Chakwera has declared a 21-day mourning period, during which flags will fly at half-mast.
The US has joined other countries, including South Africa, in offering its condolences to Malawi over the tragic loss.
The late Dr. Saulos Chilima is currently lying in state in Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe.
On Saturday, President Chakwera will lead the nation a body viewing ceremony at Parliament building before holding a public funeral ceremony at Bingu Stadium.
The remains of the late vice president will be interred on Moday in his home village in Nsipe in Ntcheu District.
“Please be assured of the condolence and support of the US Government and US President Joe Biden.”
Anthony Blinken
US Secretary of State
