Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has officially conceded defeat in the country’s September 16 general election, acknowledging that opposition leader and former president Peter Mutharika holds what he described as an “insurmountable lead.”
In a national address on Wednesday, just hours before the Malawi Electoral Commission was set to announce the final results, Chakwera said he had already called Mutharika to congratulate him.
“A few minutes ago, I called Professor Mutharika to wish him well,” Chakwera stated. “Ahead of the announcement, it was clear that my rival Peter Mutharika has an insurmountable lead over me.”
Chakwera, 70, of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), came to power in 2020 after defeating Mutharika in a court-ordered re-run of the previous year’s election. His presidency, however, was marred by economic turmoil, rising inflation, and widespread criticism over governance failures and unmet promises.
The economy was a central issue in the 2025 election, with critics accusing Chakwera of poor economic management, indecisiveness, and a lack of progress in combating corruption. Malawi, a largely rural and agriculture-dependent nation, saw inflation spike to 33 percent during his tenure. The soaring costs of fertiliser and maize, the country’s staple food, became flashpoints in the campaign.
“In the days that remain, I want you to know that I am committed to a peaceful transfer of power,” Chakwera said, addressing supporters and the nation at large. “I know that many of you who supported my campaign for reelection will be disappointed.”
Peter Mutharika, a seasoned politician and constitutional law expert from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), is poised to return to office after five years in opposition. His comeback reflects growing voter dissatisfaction with the MCP-led government and high expectations for urgent economic reforms.
