Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has admitted defeat in last week’s general election, conceding that his opponent, Peter Mutharika, has secured an ‘insurmountable’ lead.
Chakwera made the announcement in a nationwide address on Wednesday, just hours before the Malawi Electoral Commission was expected to release the official results of the September 16 poll.
President Chakwera Concedes Defeat
Chakwera, 70, of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), said he had personally called Mutharika to congratulate him.
“A few minutes ago, I called Professor Mutharika to wish him well,” President Chakwera said. “It was clear that my rival Peter Mutharika has an insurmountable lead over me.”
The former pastor first assumed office in 2020 after defeating Mutharika in a landmark election. Speaking to the nation, Chakwera stressed his commitment to ensuring a peaceful transfer of power.
“In the days that remain, I want you to know that I am committed to a peaceful handover,” he said, acknowledging that many of his supporters may feel disappointed.
Economic Challenges Shape the Election
The election was dominated by public concerns over Malawi’s struggling economy.
Critics accused Chakwera of indecisiveness, poor management, and failing to tackle corruption while not delivering on promises to create jobs.
During his term, the cost of living soared, with inflation reaching 33 percent.
The price of staple foods such as maize and agricultural inputs like fertilizer also surged, creating widespread frustration among the country’s largely rural population.