Former Malawian president Peter Mutharika has pulled ahead in the country’s tense presidential election, according to provisional results released by the Malawi Electoral Commission. Figures from nine out of 36 councils show Mutharika winning about 51 percent of valid votes, compared to nearly 39 percent for incumbent Lazarus Chakwera.
To avoid a runoff, a candidate must secure more than 50 percent of the vote. The electoral body has warned against premature victory claims, stressing that every tally sheet will be carefully verified before the official announcement, expected by the end of September 24.
A Contest of Rivals
Observers had long predicted a head-to-head battle between the two familiar rivals. At 85, Mutharika, a former law professor, is seeking a comeback after leading Malawi from 2014 to 2020. His tenure was praised for infrastructure projects and taming inflation, but dogged by accusations of favoritism, which he strongly denies.
Chakwera, 70, a former pastor, rose to power in 2020 after Malawi’s constitutional court annulled Mutharika’s contested 2019 victory due to ballot irregularities, including the infamous use of correction fluid on results sheets. He promised sweeping reforms against corruption, but critics argue his fight has been selective and sluggish.
Economy at the Heart of the Vote
The election has unfolded against the backdrop of deepening hardship. Inflation has stayed above 20 percent for more than three years, leaving households squeezed. On top of this, a devastating cyclone and a regional drought—both linked to climate change—have battered farmlands, worsening food insecurity.
Mutharika has built his campaign on pledges to restore stability and lower inflation, pointing to his past record. Analysts believe voter anger over rising prices and shortages may heavily sway the outcome.
Eyes on the Final Count
The electoral commission is expected to publish full provisional results by September 24. Should neither candidate cross the 50 percent mark, Malawians will return to the polls for a runoff.
For now, the nation waits anxiously. The final result will decide whether Malawi continues under Chakwera’s leadership or witnesses the return of Mutharika—prolonging one of the country’s fiercest political rivalries.
