Mutharika Vows to Tackle Corruption and Revive Economy in Triumphant Return as Malawi’s President
Blantyre – Peter Mutharika, at 85, has made a stunning political comeback, sworn in as Malawi’s president for a second term after securing a landslide victory in the September 16, 2025, election. Defeating incumbent Lazarus Chakwera, who garnered 33% of the vote, Mutharika clinched over 56% amid widespread frustration over economic woes in one of the world’s poorest nations.
In his inaugural address at a packed Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre, Mutharika pledged to root out government corruption and rebuild the ailing economy, acknowledging the dire inheritance of food shortages, soaring costs, and foreign exchange crises. “We will fix this country,” he declared, warning of “hard work, tough and painful decisions” ahead, and signaling the end of the “honeymoon of looting government.” The ceremony drew supporters in Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) blue and white, alongside government officials and African heads of state, marking a peaceful transition hailed as a democratic milestone.
This victory flips the script from 2020, when Chakwera ousted Mutharika, and represents the fourth showdown between the two rivals. As Malawi grapples with acute poverty and climate-driven hardships, Mutharika’s return raises hopes for stability but questions on delivering amid fiscal constraints. His direct appeal to US President Donald Trump for investment underscores a push for international aid, following cuts in US foreign assistance. Chakwera, absent from the event, conceded gracefully, wishing his successor success via a Malawi Congress Party (MCP) statement.
Mutharika’s Swearing-In and Key Address Highlights
The inauguration on October 4, 2025, unfolded at Kamuzu Stadium, filled with jubilant DPP supporters and dignitaries, including Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Mutharika took the oath before Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda, marking his return after five years out of power. In a speech blending resolve and realism, he painted a stark picture of the nation’s plight: “There is no money in government. Borrowing is extremely high, and nobody knows where the borrowed money has gone.”
He committed to anti-corruption measures, economic reforms, and appealing for global investment to address food insecurity affecting millions, persistent fuel shortages, and a lack of foreign currency crippling businesses. Mutharika’s call to Trump – announcing a delegation to the US – aims to revive aid flows, vital for a country reliant on donor support. Analysts note this outreach could test relations amid Malawi’s economic desperation, with GDP growth stalled and inflation biting.
Election Outcome and Peaceful Transition
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) declared Mutharika the winner on September 24, 2025, with 56.8% of votes against Chakwera’s 33%. Turnout reached 76.4%, one of the highest ever, reflecting deep voter engagement amid crisis. Chakwera conceded swiftly, a move praised for upholding democracy in a region often marred by disputes.
The EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) commended the peaceful, orderly polls, with 99% of voting assessed positively, though noting concerns like campaign finance gaps and low women’s participation. Despite reports of irregularities, the mission’s preliminary statement affirmed rights were respected. This contrasts with past elections, including the annulled 2019 vote that led to Chakwera’s 2020 win.
Economic Challenges and Mutharika’s Pledges
Malawi faces severe hurdles: Acute food shortages from climate shocks, high borrowing with unclear accountability, and forex scarcity fueling inflation. Mutharika’s “we will fix this” vow includes painful reforms, anti-graft drives, and boosting intra-African trade for growth. He inherits a nation where poverty affects over half the population, with youth unemployment soaring.
His appeal for investment targets partners like the US, amid aid cuts over governance issues. Experts warn success hinges on transparency and international support, given Malawi’s donor dependency.
Regional and International Reactions
Leaders like Mnangagwa attended, reaffirming SADC ties, with Malawi set to deputise the bloc ahead of chairing in 2026. UAE leaders congratulated Mutharika, signaling broader interest.
Civil society, like CISONECC, pledged support for sustainability and climate resilience. Fictional analyses highlight lessons in leadership and economic focus.
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