Former Malawi president Peter Mutharika has reclaimed the presidency after securing 57% of the vote in last week’s general election. Incumbent Lazarus Chakwera, conceded before the final tally, phoning Mutharika to acknowledge what he described as a “historic win.”
The 85-year-old Mutharika previously led the country from 2014 until 2020, when a court-ordered rerun overturned his disputed 2019 re-election. His return follows years of political rivalry with Chakwera, who rose to power after that rerun.
Celebrations erupted in Lilongwe after the results, with supporters singing, dancing, and chanting “Achoke!”—a call for Chakwera to step down. Some tore down campaign posters of the outgoing president, reflecting widespread frustration over economic decline.
Malawi now faces a daunting economic landscape. Inflation is nearing 30%, fuel and currency shortages persist, and rolling blackouts disrupt daily life. Mutharika campaigned on restoring stability and experience, though questions remain about his ability to govern effectively at 85. His swearing-in is expected within 30 days.
