Peter Mutharika is poised to reclaim Malawi’s presidency after securing 56% of the vote in the September 2025 election. The Malawi Electoral Commission confirmed his victory, naming Justice Dr Jane Mayemu Ansah as vice president-elect.
Mutharika, who previously served as president from 2014 to 2020, will succeed Lazarus Chakwera, who received 33% of the vote and conceded defeat in a televised address shortly before the official results were announced.
Jubilant scenes erupted nationwide as supporters celebrated Mutharika’s return, voicing optimism that his leadership will address the country’s deepening economic woes. Malawi is currently grappling with inflation exceeding 27%, widespread fuel and food shortages, and a sharply weakening currency issues worsened by the devastating 2023 cyclone and a severe drought last year.
In Lilongwe, resident Lewis Kasama shared his hopes for the new administration: “The President should ensure food security and lower fertilizer costs. He must also work to strengthen the Malawi Kwacha and promote unity across regions to rebuild the nation.”
