BLANTYRE – Former Malawi president Peter Mutharika has taken an early lead in the September 16 presidential election, according to provisional results from the electoral commission.
Figures from nine of the country’s 36 councils showed Mutharika with about 51 percent of the valid votes, compared to nearly 39 percent for incumbent president Lazarus Chakwera. A candidate must secure more than half of the vote to avoid a runoff.
Political observers had predicted a close contest between the two rivals, who have now faced each other four times. Chakwera, a former pastor, is seeking a second term after first winning office in 2020, while Mutharika, a former law professor, is attempting a comeback at the age of 85.
The vote comes as Malawians grapple with persistent economic hardship. Inflation has remained above 20 percent for over three years, while drought and cyclone damage linked to climate change have deepened food insecurity.
Mutharika, who governed from 2014 to 2020, was credited with stabilising prices and investing in infrastructure, though he faced accusations of favouritism. Chakwera campaigned on an anti-corruption platform but has been criticised for the slow pace of reforms.
The electoral commission has until September 24 to publish provisional results. Officials cautioned candidates against declaring victory before the full count, stressing that every tally sheet is still being verified for accuracy.
Discussion about this post