Lilongwe, Malawi, Sept 24 – Former president Peter Mutharika has staged a dramatic political comeback at the age of 85, defeating incumbent Lazarus Chakwera in Malawi’s latest election and reshaping the country’s political future.
The Malawi Electoral Commission confirmed that Mutharika secured 57% of the vote, while Chakwera, 70, received 33%. In a rare show of humility, Chakwera conceded before the official announcement, phoning Mutharika to congratulate him on what he called a “historic win,” according to Reuters.
Mutharika, a former law professor and younger brother of the late president Bingu wa Mutharika, previously governed from 2014 to 2020. His 2019 election victory was annulled by the Constitutional Court after judges uncovered widespread irregularities, including altered results, reported Al Jazeera. The decision paved the way for Chakwera’s landslide win in the 2020 rerun.
Economic crisis defined the election
For millions of Malawians, this election was shaped less by political loyalty and more by survival. The nation faces a severe economic crisis, with inflation nearing 30%, according to the World Bank. In supermarkets across Lilongwe, a frozen chicken costs around $20 — in a country where most citizens live on less than $2 a day, notes the BBC.
Fuel and foreign currency shortages have made life even harder. Although Chakwera blamed external shocks such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, critics say his government failed to tackle corruption or deliver reforms, a point highlighted by The Guardian.
Mutharika’s campaign mantra, “a return to proven leadership,” resonated with voters who remembered his efforts to stabilize the economy during his first term, as reported by Voice of America.
Celebrations and rejection of Chakwera
In Lilongwe, Mutharika’s supporters flooded the streets chanting “Adadi” — meaning father in Chichewa. Some ripped down posters of Chakwera, shouting “Achoke!” meaning “he must go.” At the Civo Stadium, where Chakwera held his last campaign rally, crowds celebrated late into the night, Africa News reported.
For many, this victory was less about embracing Mutharika and more about rejecting Chakwera’s leadership. Under Chakwera, Malawians endured worsening power cuts, rising costs of living, and growing discontent, issues documented by The New York Times.
Can Mutharika deliver again?
Despite the euphoria, questions remain. At 85, Mutharika kept a low profile during the campaign, fueling speculation about his health. Yet his supporters believe he can repeat his past success in tackling inflation and stabilizing the economy, as noted by Bloomberg.
The swearing-in ceremony must take place within 30 days. For more analysis on African politics, visit Sauce.co.ke.
