The body of the late Traditional Authority (T.A.) Thukuta, who died on Monday, was laid to rest on Tuesday at his headquarters in Thyolo.

Traditional Authority Thukuta, whose real name was John Waison, aged 63, succumbed to Pneumonia on Monday at Fatima Hospital in Nsanje District.

Speaking on behalf of President Lazarus Chakwera, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Halima Daud said the Malawi leader who is currently out of the country, was deeply shocked with the death of the Chief.

“I do not have a lot to say, but only to offer advice to the bereaved family to choose the right person to succeed the departed chief and would also urge relevant stakeholders to help this family when it comes to choosing the right replacement,” she said.

Senior Chief Mphuka, who is Chiefs Council Chairperson in Thyolo, said T.A. Thukuta was very instrumental in ensuring that government developments are fulfilled in the district then advised the chieftaincy clan to unite and select the right person who can take over from the departed chief.

Born on January 1, 1960, Traditional Authority Thukuta is survived by a wife and five children and served as traditional leader for 24 years.