Malawi VP Confirmed Dead

Malawi is in a state of mourning after the tragic death of Vice President Saulos Chilima in a plane crash on Monday. The aircraft carrying Chilima went off the radar and disappeared shortly after takeoff from the capital, Lilongve. President Lazarus Chakwera announced the devastating news in a press briefing on Tuesday, expressing the nation's deep sorrow and pain.

Chilima, who was 51 years old, was a respected and beloved leader in Malawi. He had served as Vice President since 2014, having previously held senior positions in the private sector, including as the first Malawian to head the country's leading mobile telecommunications company, Airtel Malawi.

The Malawian Defence Force reported that the aircraft "went off radar" after leaving Lilongwe on Monday morning. Despite efforts by aviation authorities to establish contact, all attempts have been unsuccessful so far. Chakwera said that the experienced crew was unable to prevent the tragic outcome, and the nation is left grappling with the loss of a dedicated public servant.

Chilima was on his way to represent the government at the burial of a former cabinet minister when the accident occurred. He is survived by his wife and two children, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership that will be deeply missed.

The search and recovery operation is ongoing, and the nation awaits more details on the circumstances surrounding the crash. In the meantime, Malawians and the international community have expressed their condolences and support for the Chilima family and the government during this difficult time.