Second Vice President Chihana Salutes Fallen Heroes, Commends Mutharika’s Commitment to Security Forces

 Second Vice President Enoch Kanzingeni Chihana has paid glowing tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of ex-servicemen and women who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars (1914–1918 and 1939–1945).

Speaking from his Area 9 residence in Lilongwe, where a delegation of ex-soldiers led by General Henry Odillo (retired) presented him with a poppy flower in honour of the fallen heroes, Chihana emphasized the importance of remembrance and national gratitude. “As President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, who is the Commander of the Malawi Defence Force, has underscored, I also wish to honour our men and women in uniform for their ultimate sacrifice that brought peace to the world, including Malawi,” Chihana said.

He commended President Mutharika’s commitment to strengthening the country’s security apparatus, noting that continued investment in the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) was crucial in tackling modern security challenges.

“This is why President Mutharika has declared that he will continue to invest in the capabilities of our military — equipping them with the resources and support necessary to address evolving security challenges that confront us daily,” he added.

Chihana described the nation’s servicemen and women as “an epitome of selflessness and patriotism,” calling on Malawians to reflect deeply on their sacrifices and extend moral and material support to veterans.

In a gesture of solidarity, the Second Vice President donated K2.5 million to the Veterans and Ex-Service League of Malawi (VELOM) to support their fundraising campaign.

Receiving the donation, General Odillo, who chairs VELOM, expressed gratitude for Chihana’s contribution, revealing that the organization is aiming to raise K300 million during this year’s Poppy Week.

Earlier, during the official inauguration of Poppy Week at Page House in Mangochi, President Arthur Peter Mutharika also called on Malawians and the corporate sector to assist war veterans, donating K5 million toward the cause.

The poppy flower, a global symbol of remembrance, is traditionally distributed by organizations such as the Royal British Legion and Royal Canadian Legion to honour soldiers who died in combat and to raise funds for veterans and their families.