Malawi's former President Peter Mutharika has been declared the winner of last week's elections, marking a significant political comeback for the 85-year-old.
Official results show that he won 57% of the vote, compared to the 33% secured by President Lazarus Chakwera. Chakwera, a pastor turned politician, conceded defeat ahead of the final result, calling Mutharika to congratulate him on his historic win.
Mutharika, a former law professor, previously served as president from 2014 to 2020, only to lose to Chakwera by a large margin. He now takes the reins of a country grappling with a deep economic crisis, characterized by severe shortages of fuel and foreign currency.
The official inflation rate hovers around 30%, with basic necessities priced far beyond what many can afford, in a nation where most live on less than $2 a day. The election commission took eight days to announce results, ensuring complaints were carefully reviewed.
The 2019 election, which Mutharika won, was annulled due to widespread irregularities, making this recent outcome more contentious. Despite the challenges faced during Chakwera's presidency—recorded as high living costs and corruption—Mutharika's past governance offered a sense of stability that voters seemed to crave.
Chakwera's concession speech acknowledged electoral irregularities but affirmed respect for the people's will, stirring celebrations among Mutharika's supporters. As jubilant crowds hit the streets, it became clear this election was less a resounding endorsement of Mutharika and more a response to growing discontent with Chakwera's administration.
Going forward, Mutharika must confront the very issues that plagued Malawi during his previous terms, proving that his age does not hinder his capability to lead once more. The upcoming swearing-in ceremony is anticipated within the next 30 days, as many await to see how he will navigate the nation's dire economic landscape.
