The ceremony, held at the crash site in Chikangawa Forest, was led by President Lazarus Chakwera. However, the families of the victims, including Chilima’s, declined to attend, insisting that any remembrance should take place at the burial sites of their loved ones.
“We believe mourning should happen where they were laid to rest, not where they lost their lives,” said a relative of one of the victims at a separate gathering held in Ntcheu, Chilima’s home district.
Despite the boycott, Chakwera pressed ahead with the state ceremony, saying; “We respect the decision of the families. Everyone mourns in their own way.”
Malawi’s Minister of Local Government Richard Chimwendo Banda announced at the event that the government plans to construct a monument at the crash site in honour of all nine victims. “This will be a national symbol to remember their sacrifice and inspire future generations in patriotism, service, and good governance,” he said.
However, many Malawians felt the official commemoration lacked the emotional depth and authenticity shown at the Ntcheu memorial, where hundreds gathered to pay their respects. Among those present were former President Joyce Banda, opposition political leaders, artists, and members of civil society.
At the Ntcheu gathering, speeches were delivered celebrating the legacy of Chilima, with political ally Simeon Salambula describing him as “an honest and visionary leader whose legacy lives on.”
Human rights observers noted the contrast between the two memorials. While the state-led event was formal and heavily guarded, the Ntcheu service was open and inclusive, with opposition voices given the platform to speak, a move widely praised as respectful and healing.
The plane crash occurred on June 10, 2024, killing all nine people on board. According to a final report by the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation, the aircraft collided with terrain due to poor visibility and adverse weather.
Still, many Malawians remain critical of the government’s handling of the incident and the subsequent memorial arrangements.
--ChannelAfrica--
