Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the plane crash that killed Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others.

HRDC chairperson Gift Trapence says this is important for the country to understand the cause of this tragic event.

Trapence has since described late Chilima as a dedicated public servant who devoted his life to the people of Malawi.

He adds Chilima was a champion of human rights, instrumental in advancing the rights of marginalized communities and a legend in promoting democratic values in country.

“This is indeed a profound loss for Malawi. We send our condolences to Mary Chilima, his children, entire family members, and the other families of those who have also lost their lives in the tragedy,” says Trapence in a statement.