Minister of Information Malisoni Ndau speaks out on absence of govt officials at Chakuamba’s funeral

Minister of information and Communications Technology Malisoni Ndau has expressed surprise over reports that there were no officials from government at both College of Medicine when the remains of late Gwanda Chakuamba were being collected as well as at Comesa Hall where viewing of the body commenced around 10 o’clock in the morning.

President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika on Monday directed that Chakuamba be accorded full military honours considering his contribution to the country.

Although this was the case, no official from government were present at the time Chakuamba’s body was being collected from College of Medicine to Comessa Hall.

As this was not enough, Chakuamba’s body was carried in an ordinary hearse and at Comesa Hall the body viewing ceremony was led by former President Dr. Bakili Muluzi instead of an official from government.

Speaking in an interview with the press, Ndau said government is making all necessary preparations to send a delegation.

When asked as to whether the President will attend burial ceremony of Chakuamba, Ndau said the press will be informed soon.

“We are yet to be told as to who will represent government whether the President or he will delegate someone, possibly this evening [last evening] we should be in a position to know as who from the government side will lead the delegation,” Ndau said.

He added that Parliament was also making preparations to send a delegation and gave assurances that officials should start trickling in at Comesa Hall by today.

Chakuamba will be laid to rest on Friday at Chinyanje Village in Nsanje.