LAGOS JULY 10TH (NEWSRANGERS)-Zambia Vice President Mutale Nalumango escaped unhurt on Thursday when a military helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff during a campaign tour in Nakonde, ahead of next month’s general election.
The Zambia Air Force aircraft went down within moments of leaving a rally venue in Nakonde District, Muchinga Province, where Nalumango had addressed supporters earlier in the day. All eight people on board, including the vice president and the flight crew, survived without injury. “After we lifted off, I do not know if it was a minute,” Nalumango said, describing the moments before the aircraft came down.
Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa confirmed the accident in a government statement, saying Nalumango was taken to Nakonde Hospital for a routine medical check as a precaution and was discharged shortly afterward in good health. President Hakainde Hichilema said he had spoken with Nalumango directly following the incident and thanked God she was unharmed. Hichilema is seeking a second term in the August 13 general election, with Nalumango as his running mate.
Photographs shared on social media showed the white air force helicopter lying on its side, apparently after striking a tree. Authorities said the cause of the crash remained unclear and confirmed that an investigation had been opened. Nalumango had been due to travel on to Isoka
District for a second rally when the aircraft went down, and she later sent a message to residents there saying she hoped to visit soon.
The ruling United Party for National Development said it was grateful the incident had not turned tragic and praised the flight crew, emergency responders and Nakonde residents for their swift response.
NewsGhana
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