Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera conceded defeat on Wednesday in last week’s election, admitting in a national address that his rival, Peter Mutharika, had built an “insurmountable lead.”
Chakwera, a former pastor, came to power in 2020 after defeating then-President Mutharika, a constitutional law expert and leader of the Democratic Progressive Party.
“A few minutes ago, I called Professor Mutharika to wish him well,” Chakwera said, speaking just hours before the election commission was expected to announce the final results of the 16 September vote.
“Even before the official results, it was clear that my rival Peter Mutharika had an insurmountable lead over me,” said the 70-year-old leader from the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
The country’s struggling economy dominated the election campaign, with critics accusing Chakwera of indecisiveness, mismanagement, and failing to address corruption or deliver on his promises to create jobs.
During his presidency, living costs soared in the agriculture-dependent nation, with inflation climbing to 33 per cent. Prices of maize — a staple food — and fertiliser also surged, becoming key issues in the election.
“In the days that remain, I want you to know that I am committed to a peaceful transfer of power,” Chakwera said. “I understand that many of you who supported my campaign for re-election will be disappointed.”