MDF asks families to be patient

Malawi Defence Force (MDF) General Paul Velentino Phiri has asked families of the aircraft crash victims in Chikangawa Forest  on Monday, to be patient.

He made the sentiments yesterday at Jauma Village in Senior Chief Malemia in Zomba during the burial of Colonel Owen Sambalopa.

Phiri said since the crash occurred a series of unfounded stories have been circulating.

“Don’t be shaken with any hearsay because a correct report about the crash will be served to the families,” he said.

Phiri further said Sambalopa has left a legacy of hard work, dedication and commitment to military service.

“Sambalopa was also passionate and determined to service, which made him rise in ranks and earn leadership positions,” he said.

In his eulogy, Minister of Defence Harry Mkandawire, who represented President Lazarus Chakwera, assured the bereaved families that government is committed to ensure that they are well taken care of.

“Let us condole the bereaved families with conscience,” he said.

In her eulogy, Zomba Malosa legislator Grace Kwelepeta called on government and other stakeholders to consider pscho-social support and material to Sambalopa’s widow and children.

“Definitely, this crash has disturbed some families’ development plans as most of the victims were breadwinners for their families,” she said.

The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) led the prayers, followed by a military pall-bearers parade and a three-gun salute.

Notable figures at the funeral included University of Malawi’s first-deputy vice-chancellor Sunduzwayo Madise, Minister of Mining Monica Chang’anamuno, Minister of Lands Deus Gumba, Zomba district commissioner Reignhard Chavula and deputy presidential adviser on religious affairs Sheikh Hashim Abbas.

Sambalopa, who joined the military in 1992, is survived by a wife and five children. He was 55.