Today 10th June, 2026 marks two years since Malawi lost former Vice President and founder of the
United Transformation Movement (UTM), Saulos Klaus Chilima, alongside eight others
in a tragic military plane crash in Chikangawa Forest, Mzimba District.
What
began as an ordinary day on June 10, 2024, ended in national mourning when the
aircraft carrying Chilima and his delegation crashed while en route to Mzuzu to
attend the funeral of prominent lawyer Ralph Kasambara.
Two
years later, tributes continue to pour in from political leaders, citizens, and
governance experts who describe Chilima as a visionary leader whose commitment
to public service and reform left a lasting mark on Malawi.
UTM
Secretary General Patricia Kaliati said Chilima's legacy remains alive in the
hearts of many Malawians.
"Dr. Chilima was a leader of dedication,
vision, integrity and he had a strong desire to see Malawi develop. He
genuinely loved Malawians and believed the country could achieve greater
heights through servant leadership," said Kaliati.
She
added that his passion for national transformation continues to inspire members
of the party and many citizens across the country.
In
Nkhotakota District, several residents described Chilima as a patriotic leader
who gave hope to young people and represented a new generation of leadership.
"Many
young people saw Dr. Chilima as a symbol of change. He inspired us to believe
that integrity and hard work could transform the nation," said one
resident.
Political
analyst George Chaima said Chilima's leadership style and vision continue to
influence both young people and public servants.
"His emphasis on accountability,
professionalism and national development remains relevant today. Leaders should
embrace the values he consistently advocated throughout his political career,"
Chaima said.
Chaima
also called for transparency in the ongoing investigations surrounding the
crash.
"The
committee conducting the inquiry must stand by the truth and avoid shielding
anyone. Malawians deserve answers on what happened," he said.
Meanwhile,
the Parliamentary Committee investigating the plane crash has announced that
public hearings will take place from June 17 to June 26, 2026.
According
to a statement released by the committee, the hearings will focus on
establishing facts surrounding the flight, including pre-flight arrangements
and decision-making processes. Committee Chairperson Walter Nyamilandu said the
hearings follow site inspections conducted as part of the committee's fresh
inquiry into the tragedy.
As
Malawi commemorates the second anniversary of the crash, many continue to
remember Chilima not only as a former vice president, but as a leader whose
vision, energy and calls for reform continue to resonate across the country.
