Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has conceded defeat in the September 16 election, acknowledging that his rival, Peter Mutharika, has an “insurmountable” lead.
In a national address, Chakwera revealed he had called Mutharika to congratulate him and pledged a peaceful handover.
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has conceded defeat in the September 16 general election, admitting that his rival, Peter Mutharika, holds an “insurmountable” lead.
In a nationwide address on Wednesday, just hours before the Malawi Electoral Commission was to release official results, Chakwera said: “A few minutes ago, I called Professor Mutharika to wish him well. It was clear that my rival Peter Mutharika has an insurmountable lead over me.”
Chakwera, 70, who first came to power in 2020 after defeating Mutharika, pledged a smooth transition: “In the days that remain, I want you to know that I am committed to a peaceful handover.”
The election was shaped by growing anger over Malawi’s struggling economy. Critics accused Chakwera of indecisiveness, poor management, and failing to tackle corruption. Inflation hit 33 percent during his term, driving up the cost of maize and fertilizer and worsening living conditions for rural households.
