The remains of ex-Flames goalie, Charles Swini, departed area 51 in Lilongwe on Wednesday afternoon for Lozi Village in Nkhotakota where he is to be laid to rest.
Hundreds of soccer fans, led by Malawi’s Attorney General, Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda, gathered at 1:15pm to witness the departure of a white Civo United 36-seater coach from Swini’s residence.
Despite the scorching heat, football enthusiasts watched their beloved icon being taken away in a brown coffin provided by Member of Parliament (MP) for Kasungu North, Mike Bango, Swini’s closest friend.
Players and supporters from Silver Strikers and Civo United turned up in large numbers to honor Swini, who had also represented their clubs.
Swini passed away on Tuesday at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe following the discovery of stones in his kidney.
Before the body was transported to Nkhotakota, speeches were delivered by the grieving family, football officials, and clergy members.
As the bus driver ignited the engine to commence the journey, choir members sang, “Amayi tsalani ngakhale mundikonda Ambuye tsogoleleni ndili ndekha.”
The convoy proceeded towards the main road to Area 25 en route to the M1 road.
Onlookers gathered along the route to bid a final farewell to Swini, with many crossing their arms and some capturing the moment with their mobile phones.
In Area 25, the convoy received a warm welcome, with hundreds singing and waving at the coffin as it passed by.
A celebratory ambiance prevailed, with fans adorned in Silver Strikers attire, waving, and chanting, “A Charlo yendani bwino Mulungu akuyang’anireni.”
Swini, born on 30th April 1983, is survived by a wife and three children.
By Arkangel Tembo-MANA
