Malawi officially confirms president's death

Published April 7, 2012 8:00AM (EDT)

BLANTYRE, Malawi (AP) — The Malawi government has confirmed the death of President Bingu wa Mutharika and declared 10 days of mourning, two days after doctors said he died following a heart attack.

A brief statement from the Cabinet on Saturday morning offered no further details. Vice President Joyce Banda is expected to address the nation soon, an indication that she will be taking over.

Under the constitution, the vice president should take over to complete Mutharika's term, due to end in early 2014.

Banda has clashed with Mutharika, and there was speculation politicians delayed announcing his death because of a squabble over succession.


By Salon Staff

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