Malawi goes to the polls Tuesday as President Lazarus Chakwera faces former leader Peter Mutharika amid soaring inflation. Voters will also choose parliament members and local councillors, with 15 other presidential contenders including ex-president Joyce Banda on the ballot.
Analysts predict a two-horse race, with Chakwera, 70, and Mutharika, 85, dominating, while a second round will follow if no candidate secures 50%. The nation has suffered economic stagnation since Chakwera’s 2020 election, worsened by cyclone devastation and regional drought that destroyed vital crops.
Inflation has hovered above 20% for over three years, deepening hardship for a population of roughly 22 million people nationwide. Corruption scandals have eroded confidence in both major parties, as Chakwera struggles with selective and slow prosecutions of alleged wrongdoing.
Political fatigue looms large, with many citizens expressing doubt over their willingness to vote, reflecting widespread disillusionment and voter apathy. Coalitions with smaller parties are expected in parliament, either led by Chakwera’s Malawi Congress Party or Mutharika’s Democratic Progressive Party to form a majority.
The two frontrunners have faced off three times, including a dramatic rerun after the 2019 election was annulled over voting irregularities. Polls open at 0600 local time and close ten hours later, with official results anticipated within a week, stirring tension and anticipation.