Keypoints:
- Peter Mutharika sworn in for second term
- Vows to restore integrity and efficiency
- African leaders attend ceremony in Blantyre
THOUSANDS of Malawians erupted in cheers at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre as Peter Mutharika was sworn in as president for a second term, marking a dramatic return to power after last month’s election.
The 85-year-old law professor, who led the southern African nation from 2014 to 2020, secured a commanding 56.8 percent of the vote — around 3 million ballots — in the September 16, 2025 presidential election. His main rival, outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera, garnered just under 1.8 million votes.
Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda presided over the swearing-in ceremony, where Jane Ansah also took the oath as vice-president. Mutharika’s return makes him Malawi’s seventh president since independence.
‘The honeymoon of plundering is over’
In his inaugural address, Mutharika struck a no-nonsense tone, warning that his government would not tolerate corruption or misuse of public funds.
‘The honeymoon of plundering government resources is over,’ he declared to loud applause. ‘Malawi belongs to all of us, regardless of political, cultural, or religious background. If anyone acts to the contrary, I will go after him or her. Never say I never warned you.’
He pledged to rebuild confidence in public institutions by restoring integrity and efficiency, adding that accountability would define his administration.
African leaders in attendance
The inauguration drew several African leaders and regional representatives, underlining Malawi’s growing profile in southern Africa.
Dignitaries included President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique, President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, and Tanzania’s Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, alongside ministers from Angola, Namibia, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Their attendance signalled strong regional support for Mutharika’s leadership and commitment to deeper cooperation within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) on trade, energy, and security.
Political comeback after five years
Mutharika’s return marks a remarkable political comeback after his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lost power in 2020. Analysts say his new mandate will be tested by Malawi’s fragile economy, persistent inflation, and high youth unemployment.
He promised to govern with ‘humility and courage’ and called on Malawians to unite behind his reform agenda. ‘We will rebuild this country together,’ he said.
