In a groundbreaking development, the Jabbar Alide Commission of Inquiry, tasked by President Lazarus Chakwera to investigate the tragic plane crash that resulted in the deaths of former Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima, and eight others, is set to present its findings to the public before formally reporting to the President. This unprecedented move orchestrated by the President reflects a significant shift towards transparency within the government.
The Commission was established following the fatal accident on June 10, 2024, when a Malawi Air Force Dornier 228-202K aircraft, registration number MAF-T03, went missing during a flight from Kamuzu International Airport to Mzuzu Airport. The flight was carrying the late Vice President and his entourage, who were en route to attend the funeral of former Minister of Justice, Mr. Raphael Kasambara. A search and rescue effort was launched after the aircraft failed to arrive at its destination on time, leading to the discovery of the wreckage the following day.
According to sources at Capital Hill, the Commission requested for an appointment with the President to submit its report as expected. However, the President has instructed the Commission to release its findings publicly first. The President has informed the Commission that upon receiving the report, he will be duty-bound to implement its recommendations and ensure accountability for any actions identified in their findings.
“This directive is historic, setting a new precedent in the presentation of Commission reports in Malawi. By opting for public disclosure, President Chakwera demonstrates a commitment to transparency, aiming to reassure citizens and honor those lost in the tragic accident”, Joseph Masina, a political scientist has commented.
According to Terms of Reference with which the Commission worked, the inquiry team was charged with several critical investigations, including:
The Decision to Travel: Investigating the circumstances that led to the Vice President’s decision to attend the funeral.
Aircraft Procurement Process: Evaluating how the MAF-T03 was requested from the Malawi Air Force for the tragic trip.
Aircraft Condition: Assessing the state of the aircraft on the day of the accident and its performance prior to the flight.
Crew Qualifications: Looking into the experience and readiness of the crew operating the flight.
Communication Protocols: Analyzing any communications between passengers and individuals on the ground before and during the flight.
Search and Rescue Operations: Scrutinizing the response times and actions taken by the Malawi Defence Force upon learning of the missing aircraft.
The legal authority for establishing the Commission stems from the Commissions of Inquiry Act of the Laws of Malawi, which grants the President the power to appoint an inquiry when public welfare is at stake. The Commission was given full access and immunity to investigate thoroughly, ensuring they could gather all necessary information from relevant stakeholders.
While an interim report from an investigation team from the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigations is expected by May 2025, the findings from the Jabbar Alide Commission aim to lay the groundwork for discussions surrounding incidents that preceded the fatal crash.
