MWE Correspondent
Former President Peter Mutharika is leading the early count in Malawi’s 2025 presidential election, signaling a closely watched political showdown.
According to preliminary results from the Malawi Electoral Commission, Mutharika has secured roughly 51% of the vote from nine out of 36 local councils, while incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera trails with about 39%.
The election is historic in many ways. For the fourth time, the two leaders face off in a contest that has divided communities and families across Malawi. Under the country’s electoral rules, a candidate must win more than 50% of votes to claim the presidency outright; otherwise, a runoff will take place in the coming weeks.
Malawi’s citizens have felt the weight of economic hardship, including high inflation, prolonged droughts, and climate-related disasters that have battered agriculture and food security. These issues have shaped voter priorities, with many seeking leadership that can deliver tangible improvements to daily life.
Mutharika, a law professor and former president from 2014 to 2020, is widely recognized for investing in infrastructure and stabilizing the economy during his tenure.
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Still, his administration faced allegations of favoritism, which he has consistently denied. Meanwhile, Chakwera, a former pastor elected in 2020 after the courts annulled Mutharika’s 2019 victory, has struggled to meet high expectations, with critics citing slow progress in economic reforms and governance.
At polling stations and counting centers, voters express a mix of hope, anxiety, and determination. Many speak of wanting tangible change: better roads, affordable food, and access to employment. Farmers hope for more support against unpredictable weather patterns, while young professionals seek opportunities that have remained scarce despite the country’s potential.
Mutharika’s supporters see him as a pragmatic leader who understands the challenges on the ground. Chakwera’s backers emphasize continuity and his moral authority, highlighting the fairness and transparency of his first term. Across the nation, the election is more than numbers—it is about who can respond to the immediate needs of citizens and the long-term vision for Malawi.
The Malawi Electoral Commission has warned against premature declarations of victory and plans to release the full results by September 24. The political outcome remains uncertain, and analysts are watching closely to see if Malawi will move toward a decisive win or prepare for a second-round runoff.
