Keypoints:
- Mutharika holds 51 percent in first tally
- Chakwera trails with 39 percent of votes
- Commission to confirm results by Sept 24
FORMER Malawian president Peter Mutharika has taken an early lead in the country’s hotly contested presidential election, according to provisional figures released by the Malawi Electoral Commission. Results from nine of Malawi’s 36 councils show Mutharika securing about 51 percent of valid votes, compared with nearly 39 percent for incumbent Lazarus Chakwera.
A candidate must win more than 50 percent of valid votes to avoid a runoff. The electoral body has stressed it will verify every tally sheet and has warned contenders not to declare victory before the official announcement, expected by the end of September 24.
Two-horse race
Political observers had long predicted a head-to-head contest between the two rivals. Mutharika, 85, a former law professor, is seeking a return to power after leading Malawi from 2014 to 2020. He was credited with boosting infrastructure and curbing inflation but faced allegations of cronyism, which he denies.
Chakwera, 70, a former pastor, was elected in 2020 after a constitutional court annulled Mutharika’s disputed 2019 victory over ballot irregularities that included the use of correction fluid on results sheets. Chakwera came to office pledging to root out corruption, but critics say his anti-graft drive has been selective and slow.
Economic hardship shapes vote
Malawi has endured persistent economic woes during Chakwera’s five-year tenure. Inflation has remained above 20 percent for more than three years, while a destructive cyclone and a regional drought—both linked to climate change—have devastated crops and deepened poverty.
Mutharika has campaigned on promises to restore economic stability, citing his previous record of lowering inflation. Analysts say voters’ frustration with high prices and food shortages could influence the final outcome.
Awaiting the full result
The electoral commission is expected to release full provisional results by September 24. If no candidate surpasses the 50 percent threshold, the race will proceed to a second-round vote.
The outcome of this election will determine whether Malawi continues under Chakwera’s leadership or sees the return of Mutharika, marking yet another chapter in the nation’s closely fought political rivalry.
