Malawi vice president, nine others die after plane crashes in dense forest
USA TodayJun 25
The Facts
Malawi's Vice Pres. Saulos Chilima and nine others have been killed in a plane crash, Pres. Lazarus Chakwera said Tuesday after rescuers found the wreckage of the military aircraft.
Based on signals from telecom towers, the government narrowed the potential crash site to a 10-kilometer (6.2 mi) radius within and around the Viphya Plantation, also known as the Chikangawa Forest.
The Spin
Narrative A
The Malawi government spared no effort and resources to locate Chilima's plane as soon as possible. This included contacting regional and development partners to assist search and rescue operations. However, it's a sad day for the country that the plane has been found with no survivors.
Narrative B
This is a very sad day and, unfortunately, one that needs a thorough investigation. The Malawi government significantly delayed starting search operations. In addition, the vice president's party was left in the dark, with access only to public information. Chilima was a potential candidate in next year's presidential election and there must be a detailed probe.