Malawi's former President Peter Mutharika has been declared the winner of last week's elections, marking a significant comeback for the 85-year-old leader. Official results indicated that he secured 57% of the vote, while incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera received 33%. Chakwera, a former pastor, acknowledged the election outcome and congratulated Mutharika for his 'historic win' even before official results were favored.
Mutharika, a former law professor, previously served as president from 2014 to 2020 and suffered a substantial defeat to Chakwera. Now, he inherits a struggling economy marked by prevalent shortages of fuel and foreign currency. The nation faces an alarming inflation rate nearing 30%, leaving many citizens in a harsh economic situation.
The election commission emphasized careful verification of results, prompting a full eight days to announce official outcomes amid previous concerns of electoral malpractice, particularly noted in the annulled 2019 election due to widespread irregularities.
In his concession speech, Chakwera highlighted the need to respect the collective will of the people, despite raising concerns over potential 'irregularities.' This led to widespread celebrations among Mutharika's supporters, who filled the streets with song and dance, chanting 'adadi,' meaning 'father' in Chichewa.
The underlying narrative suggests that Mutharika's victory may be perceived as a rejection of Chakwera rather than a direct affirmation of Mutharika's leadership, stemming from a series of governance challenges faced during Chakwera's term, including rampant corruption and soaring living costs.
Despite speculation regarding Mutharika's health affecting his capacity to lead at 85, he has pledged to address the overwhelming issues of inflation that plagued his earlier term. His campaign slogan, 'a return to proven leadership,' spoke to voters disillusioned by the current government's struggles.
The transition process will see Mutharika sworn in within a month, and all eyes will be on his ability to stabilize the economy and address the myriad of issues faced by the Malawian populace.
