In a stunning political comeback, former President Peter Mutharika has been declared the winner of Malawi’s 2025 presidential election, unseating incumbent Lazarus Chakwera. With 56.8% of the vote to Chakwera’s 33%, Mutharika’s return to power marks one of the most remarkable reversals in the country’s modern political history.
Mutharika, who was ousted in 2020 after a court annulled the previous election results due to irregularities, has staged a comeback that underscores his enduring influence over Malawi’s political landscape. Analysts suggest that his victory reflects not only the electorate’s fatigue with the current administration but also the DPP’s ability to capitalize on grassroots networks built over years of political organization.
The election took place against a backdrop of economic turbulence. Malawi has faced persistent inflation, rising food prices, and growing unemployment, especially among young people, fueling public discontent. Many voters expressed hope that Mutharika’s previous experience could help stabilize the economy and reinvigorate development initiatives that stalled during Chakwera’s tenure.
In his concession speech, Chakwera called for a peaceful transition of power, acknowledging Mutharika as the presumptive winner and urging supporters to respect the results. The tone of his address was notably conciliatory, emphasizing national unity over partisan rivalry, and signaling a commitment to democratic norms that observers have praised.
Celebrations erupted across major cities, particularly in Blantyre and Lilongwe, where DPP supporters gathered to welcome their returning leader. Local reports described the atmosphere as jubilant but orderly, highlighting the electorate’s desire to embrace political change without descending into chaos.
Mutharika’s campaign had focused heavily on economic reform, promising to revive agricultural productivity, improve infrastructure, and attract foreign investment. Experts note that his success may depend on balancing immediate economic relief with longer-term structural reforms. He will also face the challenge of navigating a parliament that is politically fragmented, which could complicate efforts to pass critical legislation.
International observers commended the electoral process, describing it as transparent, competitive, and largely peaceful. This assessment marks a milestone for Malawi, reinforcing its reputation as one of the more stable democracies in southern Africa despite ongoing social and economic pressures.
Mutharika’s return is seen by many as a symbol of political resilience. Yet the road ahead will be anything but easy. Beyond managing economic expectations, his administration must address issues of governance, corruption, and social inequality. Analysts argue that the credibility of his government will hinge on his ability to deliver tangible improvements to everyday life for Malawians, particularly the youth and rural communities.
As Malawi enters this new chapter, all eyes will be on how Mutharika navigates these challenges. His triumph is not just a personal political victory; it represents a critical test for the nation’s democratic institutions and their ability to accommodate change, even after years of entrenched leadership. The next few months will be pivotal, determining whether his return can translate into meaningful progress for Malawi’s population or whether political divisions will hinder the country’s growth.
