Chilima rejects official convoy

Malawi new Vice President Saulos Chilima today refused to be pampered with an official convoy before officially taking the oath of

office.

Just hours after the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) announced winners of this year’s presidential elections; the State machinery sent an official convoy to Chilima’s parents in-laws’ residence in Nyambadwe, Blantyre, where he was staying.

Nation Online which was give exclusive access to both Chilima and Mutharika’s compounds witnessed the whole drama unfold in Nyambadwe, as Chilima opted to travel to the High Court in his personal Mercedes Benz, registration SKC 9933, to be sworn in as Vice President alongside his boss, President Peter Mutharika.

Clad in a three-piece grey suit, blue shirt, matching necktie and dark glasses, Chilima was set for the big event by9:42am when the government convoy arrived to pick him and his wife, Mary.

The official convoy comprised a Black Mercedez Benz registration MG 2, Toyota VX, an ambulance and a police vehicle. The fleet left after some minutes. It was reportedly sent to the High Court in Blantyre to pick Chilima after his swearing in.

The Vice President was nonetheless escorted to the Judiciary Complex by a smaller motorcade comprising private vehicles and two police vehicles with armed officers.

Moments earlier, he was seen waiting outside his parents-in-laws’ residence with some of his close friends.

In an interview, before his departure to take the oath of office, jovial Chilima said the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) will fulfil its campaign pledges.

“It is a historic moment for me and my family. I quit my job at Airtel Malawi to pursue this national duty and I am pleased God has responded positively.

“We have put up a gallant fight to lead the party to victory. It is now time to focus on how to develop this country,” said Chilima.