Tragedy struck during the funeral convoy of the late Malawian Vice-President Saulos Chilima when a vehicle in the procession veered off the road and hit a group of mourners, resulting in the deaths of four people, including a pregnant woman.
Twelve others were injured and are receiving medical treatment.
The incident occurred on Sunday night amidst clashes between local people and the police and soldiers escorting the convoy.
The late Vice-President Chilima, who died in a plane crash a week ago, was being transported from the capital, Lilongwe, to his home village in Ntcheu for burial.
As thousands lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the coffin, tensions escalated near Chilima’s home.
Some mourners began throwing stones at government vehicles and officials. The police reported that one vehicle went off the road during the chaos, resulting in the fatal accident.
Felix Njawala, spokesman for Chilima’s UTM party, noted that the tension peaked in Dedza where people blocked the road and demanded to see the coffin.
Despite these disturbances, the convoy continued after pacifying the mourners. The party has since condemned the violence and urged supporters to maintain peace, reflecting the values Chilima advocated for during his lifetime.
Chilima, 51, was mourned by tens of thousands at a service in the national stadium on Sunday. Known for his special connection with the youth and his refreshing presence in Malawian politics, his sudden death in a military aircraft crash amidst bad weather has left a significant impact on the nation.
Saulos Chilima’s party, UTM, formed a coalition government with President Lazarus Chakwera’s party after their alliance won the 2020 elections.
However, some of Chilima’s supporters have criticized the government’s handling of events leading to his death, expressing their discontent by booing President Chakwera during his eulogy at the funeral service on Sunday.
In response to these criticisms, President Chakwera has promised a full investigation into the cause of the crash.
Security measures have been intensified throughout Ntcheu district in preparation for Chilima’s burial.
