Peter Mutharika, Malawi’s president from 2014 to 2020 has made a decisive comeback for a second term.
With 3 million votes, representing 56.8% of the total valid votes cast, Mutharika defeated incumbent, Lazarus Chakwera who received 33% of votes.
Making the announcement, the country’s Electoral Commissioner, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for a smooth elections.
The comeback was influenced by economic challenges, a fast rising inflation, high poverty rates, unemployment and a high corruption perception.
Prior to the announcement, incumbent, Chakwera conceded to Mutharika, a decision he says was based on a respect for the will of the people and the constitution.
Mutharika is expected to be sworn in seven days after the announcement of results, according to the country’s electoral commission.
