Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera on Wednesday conceded defeat in last week’s election, acknowledging that his rival, Peter Mutharika, held an “insurmountable lead.”
His televised address came just hours before the electoral body was expected to formally announce the final results of the September 16 poll.
Chakwera, who rose to power in 2020 after defeating Mutharika, said, “A few minutes ago, I called Professor Mutharika to wish him well.”
The 70-year-old Malawi Congress Party leader admitted that his opponent’s lead was beyond recovery, telling supporters, “I know that many of you who supported my campaign for reelection will be disappointed.”
The economy, plagued by inflation, rising food and fertiliser prices, and accusations of mismanagement, dominated the campaign. Critics faulted Chakwera for failing to deliver on promises of job creation or to tackle widespread corruption. Inflation soared to 33 percent during his term, fueling voter discontent.
Chakwera pledged a peaceful transition, assuring Malawians that the handover of power would be orderly.
What you should know
Lazarus Chakwera, who ended Peter Mutharika’s presidency in 2020, is now stepping aside after losing to him in the 2025 elections.
Malawi’s deep economic troubles, rising inflation, and unfulfilled reforms shaped the election outcome. His concession underscores a commitment to peaceful democracy, even amid citizens’ frustration over economic hardship.
