Peter Mutharika Returns at 85: How Malawi’s Former President Won the 2025 Election
By Legal Africa Newsroom
Former president Arthur Peter Mutharika (85) has staged one of Africa’s most striking political comebacks. After more than five years out of office, he was declared the winner of Malawi’s 16 September 2025 presidential election, securing a decisive majority over incumbent Lazarus Chakwera.
The Malawi Electoral Commission’s official results gave Mutharika roughly 56.8% of the vote (≈3.04 million votes) against Chakwera’s ~33% (≈1.77 million). With a voter turnout of about 76.4% from over 7.2 million registered voters, the margin was large enough to avoid a runoff.
Why Mutharika Won
1. Economic Discontent
Years of inflation, foreign currency shortages, and aid cuts created frustration among Malawians. Many voters turned to Mutharika, hoping for economic relief and stability.
2. Political Realignments
Opposition forces consolidated around Mutharika and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), while cracks appeared in Chakwera’s governing coalition. This shift gave Mutharika a clear advantage in several key regions.
3. Experience and Nostalgia
Campaigning as a steady hand with prior presidential experience (2014–2020), Mutharika promised to “fix the economy.” For many, his past tenure carried a sense of stability worth revisiting.
4. Strong Ground Campaign
Mutharika’s DPP mobilized effectively across Malawi’s 36 electoral councils. Partial results showed him leading in a majority of districts early in the count, cementing voter confidence in his comeback.
Legal and Governance Implications
Election Integrity
Unlike the disputed 2019 election that was annulled, the 2025 poll has so far been viewed as credible by local and international observers. Some complaints surfaced, but none altered the overall outcome.
Concession and Transition
On 24 September 2025, Chakwera conceded before the final declaration, urging peace and respect for the process. His concession eased tensions and avoided protracted legal battles.
Accountability Concerns
Mutharika’s earlier presidency was shadowed by corruption allegations. Civil society and legal observers are expected to keep a close eye on transparency, governance reforms, and anti-corruption measures in the new administration.
Regional and International Reactions
The African Union and Southern African leaders quickly congratulated Mutharika, commending the electoral process and peaceful transfer of power. Donors and international partners, however, remain focused on how his government will tackle Malawi’s immediate economic and governance challenges.
Conclusion
At 85 years old, Peter Mutharika’s return to State House is both a political shockwave and a legal case study in Malawi’s democracy. His victory reflects economic dissatisfaction, political realignment, and nostalgia for experienced leadership.
For Malawi’s lawyers, policymakers, and civil society, the next five years will be about testing institutions, monitoring governance, and ensuring accountability under a leader making an unlikely comeback.
Call to Action
What does Peter Mutharika’s return mean for Malawi’s democracy and governance? Share your thoughts with us at Legal Africa in the comments or by emailing info@legalafrica.org.
