Malawi’s 2025 election: How the economy and corruption could decide the presidency
President Lazarus Chakwera is seeking a second term in an election being closely watched internationally, particularly after the annulment of the 2019 vote over widespread irregularities.
With Malawians heading to the polls on Tuesday, September 16, global attention will turn to the southern African nation as it elects its next leaders.
Voters will cast their ballots for a president, 229 MPs, and 509 local councillors. To win the presidency, a candidate must secure more than 50 per cent of the vote.
President Lazarus Chakwera is seeking a second term in an election being closely watched internationally, particularly after the annulment of the 2019 vote over widespread irregularities.
This explainer outlines the key presidential contenders, the major issues shaping the campaign, and what is at stake for Malawi’s future.
What is at stake?
The election comes as Malawi, one of the world’s poorest nations, struggles with soaring inflation, food shortages, and fuel crises. According to the International Rescue Committee (IRC), more than 15 million Malawians already required humanitarian aid even before the current crisis deepened. For many voters, the economy, corruption, and accountability will be central in deciding whom to support.
Who are the main presidential contenders?
Seventeen candidates are running for president, but the race largely centres on two familiar figures:
Lazarus Chakwera (MCP): The 70-year-old former preacher rose to power in 2020 after defeating Peter Mutharika in a re-run ordered by Malawi’s Constitutional Court. His administration has faced persistent challenges, including high inflation, fuel shortages, and corruption allegations.
Peter Mutharika (DPP): At 85, the former law lecturer and brother of the late Bingu wa Mutharika is staging a comeback. He previously governed from 2014 to 2020 and, like Chakwera, has been accused of corruption. Supporters claim he managed the economy more effectively than his successor, citing today’s 27 per cent inflation rate. However, his age and limited campaign visibility have sparked questions about his health.
Other contenders include former president Joyce Banda, Vice-President Michael Usi, and former Reserve Bank governor Dalitso Kabambe, though none are expected to pose a serious challenge to the frontrunners.
Key issues for voters
The economy: Natural disasters have worsened Malawi’s difficulties. Cyclone Freddy in 2023 killed hundreds, while a subsequent drought drove up food prices. A shortage of foreign currency, repeated devaluations, and crippling power outages have further strained households.
Corruption: Chakwera entered office pledging to “clear the rubble of corruption,” but critics argue little progress has been made. The Anti-Corruption Bureau has been without a leader for over a year, and the dropping of charges against high-profile figures has fuelled scepticism. Both Mutharika and Banda have also been linked to scandals, underscoring corruption as a persistent theme in Malawi’s politics.
Vice-president’s death: The 2024 death of Saulos Chilima in a plane crash shocked the nation. Popular with youth, Chilima was viewed as a strong potential candidate. While official investigations ruled out foul play, lingering suspicions remain, and opposition parties have exploited this sentiment in their campaigns.
When will the results be announced?
The electoral commission has said presidential results will be released by September 24, with parliamentary results expected by September 30.
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