Death of Malawi president confirmed

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 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 Mr Mutharika’s term, due to end in early 2014.