Malawi’s President Chakwera Accepts Defeat as Ex-President Mutharika Wins

Former President Peter Mutharika has won Malawi’s September 16, 2025, presidential election with 56.8% of the vote, defeating incumbent Lazarus Chakwera, who got 33%. This result, confirmed by the Malawi Electoral Commission, marks a strong comeback for Mutharika.

Chakwera, 70, conceded defeat before the full results were announced, acknowledging that Mutharika had built “an insurmountable lead over me.” He also called for a peaceful transfer of power, telling his supporters he knew many would be disappointed.

Malawi’s voters were focused heavily on the economy. Inflation has surged to over 27%, food prices—especially maize—soared, and many households blame shortages of fuel and foreign exchange. Cyclone Freddy in 2023 and recurring droughts worsened the crisis.

Key Issues That Shaped Voting

• Almost 76% of registered voters turned out to vote, among about 7.2 million registered voters.
• There were 17 presidential candidates in the race, though the main contest was between Mutharika and Chakwera.
• Analysts point to mismanagement and corruption complaints against Chakwera. His promises to create jobs and reverse living cost pressures failed to satisfy many voters.

A Wider Backdrop of Hardship

Malawi’s economy has been weak for years. Economic growth has lagged, often around 2%, while inflation stayed high above 20% for over three years.

Maize is central: it’s Malawi’s staple food. Poor harvests and climate shocks made maize prices jump, hurting households that spend most of their income on food. Then there were currency devaluations and fuel shortages.

Mutharika campaigned on promises of restoring stability, lowering inflation, improving food security, and strengthening basic services. Many voters responded.

His return also comes with challenges: foreign reserves low, inflation high, and urgent need for growth that matches population demands.

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