John Adoyi, PBA Journalism Mentee
President Lazarus Chakwera has conceded defeat in Malawi’s 2025 election, clearing the way for the return of former president Peter Mutharika.
In a nationally televised address, Chakwera said he was bowing out “in respect of your will as citizens and in respect of the constitution.” His statement comes ahead of the Malawi Electoral Commission’s official announcement of results, expected later today.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelPreliminary tallies already showed Mutharika with a commanding lead. Local broadcaster Times TV projected the 85-year-old as the winner on Tuesday, citing verified constituency results. If confirmed, the outcome will mark a stunning comeback for Mutharika and a rare defeat for an incumbent in Malawi’s democratic history.
Mutharika previously served as president from 2014 to 2020. He is remembered for expanding infrastructure and stabilising inflation but was also accused of nepotism and weak governance. His rivalry with Chakwera is one of the fiercest in the country’s political history. In 2019 Mutharika was declared winner, but the Constitutional Court annulled that election citing widespread irregularities. A rerun in 2020 brought Chakwera to power.
This year’s contest was their fourth head-to-head battle, fought in the midst of mounting public anger over rising food prices, inflation, and widespread poverty. Many voters blamed Chakwera’s administration for failing to ease the economic burden, fuelling Mutharika’s resurgence.
The Bank of Malawi has warned that the economy is under severe strain from external shocks, climate-related crop failures, and unsustainable public debt. Observers say Mutharika will face immediate pressure to restore confidence, address corruption concerns, and negotiate new support from international partners.
Chakwera’s concession may help calm tensions in a country where elections have previously sparked unrest. His move signals respect for the rule of law and could strengthen institutional credibility at a critical moment.
The Malawi Electoral Commission has until the end of today to declare the final result as required under the constitution.
