Tributes have started pouring in for Vice-President Dr Saulos Klaus Chilima with Democratic Progressive Party President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika conveying his condolences on the family of Chilima and eight other Malawians killed in plane crash and the nation at large.
Initial reports indicated that Dr Chilima and nine others perished in the accident.
According to a statement released by the former president’s spokesperson and party spokesperson Shadrec Namalomba, the former head of state and party supporters are deeply saddened with the tragedy.
Mutharika roped in Chilima from the private sector and became the Vice-President in 2014 after winning the polls as his running mate.
The state President Dr Lazarus Chakwera confirmed on Tuesday in emotional national address the passing on of all the passengers on the flight enroute to Lilongwe from Mzuzu after they failed to land at Mzuzu Airport due to bad weather.
Former President Dr. Bakili Muluzi has disclosed that he is heartbroken and mourning the loss of his ex-wife former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri, Chilima and seven others.
On its part, Media Council of Malawi also paid its tribute in a statement released by MCM and signed by Board Chairperson Dr. Jolly Maxwell Ntaba.
MCM has since cautioned the media to prioritise accuracy, fairness and balance in their coverage of tragic event.
The High Commission for the Republic of South Africa also expressed sincere condolences on the demise of the Vice-President and others.
The German Embassy has conveyed its heartfelt condolences on the tragic death.
Germany through its ambassador described Chilima as dedicated and passionate about the development and prosperity of Malawi.
Atupele Muluzi and wife Angella have also expressed their condolences.
He also made a special tribute Madam Patricia Shanil Dzimbiri, who was her step mother and special advisor in the Office of the Vice-President.
