Stadium stampede taskforce calls for information from eye witness’ account
A government Taskforce appointed by President Peter Mutharika to investigate on the July 6, Bingu National Stadium’s Independence Day celebrations stampeded that killed 8 people, seven of whom were children, has called upon people who witnessed the events unfold to assist it with information.
In its notice to the public issued on Tuesday, Chairman for the taskforce Zangazanga Chikhosi, said individuals who witnessed the event unfolding and would want to help, should present themselves to the taskforce
“Those willing should call the following numbers for information, the Chairman Zanga Chikhosi on 0999297100 or 0888865565,the Secretary Dr Steven Kayuni on 0883224704 or 0991540381 or the Julius Chamangwana at the Secretariat on 0999345347,” reads the notice.
Days after the incident, President Arthur Peter Mutharika appointed the Taskforce to inquire circumstances that led to the tragic loss of lives and injuries on that day.
Eye witnesses said the stampede occurred as police used teargas to disperse the crowds that were scuffling to find seats in the stadium ahead of a football match during celebrations marking 53 years of Malawi’s independence from British rule.
Police said the stampede occurred when spectators forced open the gates at the stadium.
At least 40 people were seriously injured, Inspector General of Police Lexan Kachama said.
Many people criticized police for their lack of crowd control techniques that resulted into the loss of lives.
Bingu National Stadium Manager, Eric Ning’ang’a was allegedly transferred to Karonga days after the incident and was replaced by Kamuzu Stadium Manager Mhango.
