Exit Samalani, enter Phungwako

The comedy franchise Chindime and Samalani is back. Of course, under a new name.

This follows the death of Elias Chimbalu about two months ago, who played Samalani in the Chindime and Samalani skit.

However, the educative, informative and entertaining skits are set to continue as Chindime, real name Boston Mkhosi, has identified Samalani’s replacement in the name of Phungwako.

“After working 20 years with Samalani until his time of death, I had to keep going on and so I found someone to work with. His stage name is Phungwako but his real name Boniface Phiri. As such, the group will no longer be Chindime ndi Samalani, but rather Chindime and Phungwako.

“I have changed the name from Chindime and Samalani because I didn’t want people to start comparing him with the late Elias. But he is a good character that people should have trust in,” explained Mkhosi in an interview.

The duo has been working together since December although they have had drama encounters over the years.

Explained Mkhosi: “Phungwako has been in drama for over 10 years, but he lacked exposure. We have been even working with him even when Elias was around.”

In a separate interview, Phungwako asked Malawians to have faith in the group.

“Obviously there might differences and changes between the former character and me, but we will strive to be the best we have always been or even better. Where you feel we need to change we are willing to. All we need is your support,” he said.