Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera has officially conceded defeat in the country’s recent presidential election, acknowledging the commanding lead of his rival, Peter Mutharika.
In a national address on Wednesday, Chakwera, 70, admitted that the outcome of the September 16 election was clear even before the final results were announced.
“A few minutes ago, I called Professor Mutharika to wish him well,” he said. “It is evident that he has secured an insurmountable lead.”
Chakwera, a former pastor and the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) candidate, took office in 2020 after defeating Mutharika in a historic election re-run. At the time, the vote was hailed as a democratic milestone in Africa.
Now, five years later, economic discontent appears to have turned the tide.
Throughout his presidency, Chakwera faced mounting criticism over rising living costs, soaring inflation, and a perceived failure to combat corruption.
Inflation peaked at 33 percent, with the prices of maize and fertiliserfertiliser, staples in Malawi’s rural economy, climbing sharply.
Voters cited economic hardship and unfulfilled promises, especially around job creation and governance reforms, as key factors in the election.
Chakwera acknowledged the disappointment many of his supporters would feel but reiterated his commitment to stability.
“In the days that remain, I want you to know that I am committed to a peaceful transfer of power,” he said.
Peter Mutharika, a constitutional law expert and leader of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), is expected to return to power after his unexpected loss five years ago.
As the country awaits the official declaration from the electoral commission, Chakwera’s concession signals a smooth transition, a gesture widely seen as a boost for Malawi’s democracy.
