Tragedy strikes as Malawians celebrate independence with death tolls.

Malawi, the country which gained its independence in 1964 celebrated its 53rd celebration at Lilongwe’s Bingu national stadium. Tragedy however took a toll as a stampede occurred, costing the lives of eight people (most of which were seven children around five to twelve years and an adult) with over 62 others severely injured.

The galore which began on Wednesday with military parades gained spectators on July 6 at the 40, 000 capacity stadium which was officially launched by His Excellency, state President Arthur Peter Mutharika of the republic of Malawi on January 28, 2017.

The multipurpose station was meant to mark the holiday with traditional prayers and a friendly sports between top rides, Nyasa Big Bullets and Silver Strikers. This activity attracted people from far and beyond in supplement to the fact that entry was free.

It was however unfortunate when people rushed their ways through gates to gain a seat whilst the president was leading Malawians in prayers at the International Convention Centre (BICC) around 10 a.m. It was reported that the police therefore fired tear gas to disperse the curious spectators, in the hope of arresting the situation. This, which in turn led to the stampede.

Scenes of children rushed into emergency rooms, victims lying on the floor due to occupied beds followed at Kamuzu Central Hospital, with blaring hoots of ambulances, police cars and other vehicles. The match still went on in a packed stadium though the President couldn’t make to attend as planned.

“My government will do all it can to assist the bereaved families,” the president said. Adding that “We are mourning with them”. The Inspector General of Police, Lexan Kachama told Reuters news agency he expected the number of casualties to rise. The tight packed match ended with Nyasa Big Bullets winning 2-1.

Correspondent: Olayiwola A. Ridwan