“Archbishop Msusa Sparks Outrage with Controversial Remarks on Chilima Plane Crash Inquiry”
Malawians from various walks of life have expressed deep concern over recent remarks by Archbishop Thomas Luke Msusa, which many view as counterproductive to the peace-building efforts championed by different stakeholders in the country.
Delivering a homily over the weekend, Msusa accused the June 10 plane crash inquiry of failing to reveal the truth, though he did not specify his grievances. His comments have sparked widespread criticism, with many describing them as unfortunate and divisive.
By questioning the findings of the inquiry, Msusa appears to be fanning conspiracy theories, particularly those suggesting that former Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima, who perished in the crash alongside eight others, was deliberately killed.
Inquiry Findings Confirmed
The latest report, along with postmortem results and earlier investigations by German aviation experts, unanimously cited bad weather and human error as the primary causes of the tragic accident. These findings have ruled out foul play.
Critics argue that Msusa’s statements risk misleading his followers and undermining the credibility of the Commission of Inquiry, which included respected members of the clergy like Monsignor Patrick Thawale. Internal dissent within the Catholic Church is also evident, with voice notes circulating in Catholic WhatsApp groups criticizing Msusa’s stance.
A History of Political Involvement
This is not the first time Bishop Msusa has faced backlash for alleged political bias. In 2018, he openly promoted the presidential bid of Chilima, leading to accusations of partisanship from Democratic Progressive Party supporters. The Episcopal Conference of Malawi eventually distanced itself from his comments, reiterating the Church’s neutrality in political matters.
Following Chilima’s death, Msusa has been linked to Dalitso Kabambe, Chilima’s successor as UTM Party leader. Reports indicate that Msusa has invited Kabambe to multiple church events, which some view as an endorsement of his political ambitions.
Divisive Remarks Amid Peace-Building Efforts
As the UTM Party rejects the inquiry’s findings, Msusa’s remarks are being seen as aligning with a partisan agenda, undermining efforts to promote unity and healing in the country. His actions, critics warn, threaten to politicize the Church and erode its standing as a neutral institution.
The Archbishop’s latest comments have ignited a national conversation about the role of religious leaders in political discourse, with many calling for restraint and impartiality in such matters.
