President Lazarus Chakwera is set to address Malawi and the world, more than 12 hours after the unexpected disappearance of his Vice President’s plane. This critical moment calls for reflection on Malawi's crisis management and handling of significant events, evoking memories of the aftermath of President Bingu wa Mutharika's death in April 2012.
In 2012, President Bingu wa Mutharika suffered a fatal heart attack, leading to confusion and a power struggle between his brother, Peter Mutharika, and then Vice President Joyce Banda. A subsequent commission of inquiry revealed that a close-knit group attempted to conceal Bingu’s death and even tried to transport his body to South Africa under an alias, masquerading it as a living patient. The incident highlighted severe bureaucratic failures, with officials more focused on hiding the president’s condition than securing urgent medical assistance.
As President Chakwera addresses the nation, several pressing questions demand answers:
1. What time was contact with the plane lost?
2. When was President Chakwera informed?
3. What immediate instructions did he give to the Malawi Defense Forces (MDF) and other critical stakeholders?
4. What assistance, if any, did he seek from neighboring countries?
5. Why has it taken him so long to address the nation and the world?
This incident underscores the importance of transparency, swift action, and clear communication in times of crisis. As Africa and the world look to Malawi for leadership and clarity, there is an urgent need for answers and accountability.
