Petrol Shortages Overshadow Elections in Malawi

Tue Oct 21 2025 03:10:07 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As Malawi approaches its general elections, the crisis of fuel shortages takes center stage, dampening hopes of civic engagement amid frustration over economic conditions.

Malawi's citizens grapple with ongoing petrol shortages and economic woes as the nation gears up for general elections. The critical situation has led voters to focus more on filling their tanks than casting their ballots, highlighting the frustration over persistent issues such as poverty and unemployment. Political strategies are muted amidst these crises, leaving many questioning the potential changes a new government could bring.

The queue to get fuel rather than the queue to vote is what is on the mind of many Malawians as Tuesday's general election approaches.

Prolonged petrol shortages, along with regular power cuts, the rising cost of living, hunger, poverty, inequality and youth unemployment, add to the tangible frustration here.

The presidential, parliamentary and local council candidates are competing for votes against a background of cynicism about what might actually change.

In a sign that money is tight, electioneering has been somewhat muted compared to the past. This is despite the presidential race being seen as a rematch between the incumbent, Lazarus Chakwera, and the man he beat in 2020, then-President Peter Mutharika.

There are 15 other candidates. But the usual colourful campaign carnival is missing. The free T-shirts usually doled out with abandon to whip up enthusiasm are more limited. There are fewer giant election billboards on the nation's main roads.

Back in the snaking petrol lines, patience runs thin, which has at times led to fist fights.

Sensing the fuel shortage was becoming an election issue, Chakwera has tried to tackle it head on. In a televised address, eight days before polls open, he acknowledged the frustration and apologised. The president then turned his fire on allegedly corrupt officials who he accused of deliberately sabotaging the oil market.

To put food on the table, young men have been selling petrol and diesel using small plastic containers at five times the official price.

The effect of the economic troubles on young people could be particularly significant in this election – as around half of registered voters are under the age of 35. And yet the two leading presidential candidates are considerably older. Chakwera is 70 and Mutharika is 85.

Mutharika's election convoy has made several stops in the villages along the Bakili Muluzi highway. In one place, a supporter held up a sign saying back to state house and said life was better when the former president was in office.

Chakwera has had a tough five years at the helm but remains optimistic. He says he is investing in the future of the country and plans to implement various welfare programs to uplift the citizens.

The upcoming elections put the spotlight on critical issues facing Malawi. As the queues for fuel overshadow the queues for voting, many hope for a transformative outcome but express deep-seated frustrations about the ongoing economic challenges.

}