President Peter Mutharika has described as unforgettable the death of 22 Malawi Defence Force (MDF) new recruits who died in a car crash at Mapanjira in Mzimba on November 2 last year.
Speaking at a memorial service of the departed soldiers which took place at Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe on Friday, Mutharika said the death of the young recruits remains memorable to the country and among family and friends.
Mutharika who is also Commander-In-Chief of MDF paid tribute to departed soldiers who he said were young people full of life, hopes and dreams.
Said Mutharika: “The death of the 22 soldiers is a big blow not only to the country but their families as well who were looking up to them for support. There were young people full of hopes and dreams.”
In his remarks MDF Commander Griffin Supini Phiri said the tragedy was the first of its kind in the history of the army to have 22 soldiers die in a single accident in a one day.
Violet Kasonda who spoke on behalf of the bereaved families expressed gratitude for the support that government rendered to the families following the accident.
She said: “We continue to mourn our children and we know that we shall be reunited with them in heaven. We are thankful for all the support that was given to us during the difficult time.”
During the service, Mutharika read from the Bible book of Hebrews 11 verses 3-4 and he also laid a wreath on a pillar which has been erected in honour of the departed soldiers, with their names inscribed on it.
