Zim GBC News Network
LILONGWE, Malawi – In a significant political development, Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera conceded defeat in the country’s presidential election on Wednesday, just hours before the final official results were to be announced.
The concession paves the way for a return to power for his predecessor, 85-year-old Peter Mutharika. Official results from the September 16 vote showed Mutharika had built a commanding lead.
In a national address, Chakwera acknowledged the will of the people.
“It is only right that I concede defeat out of respect for your will as citizens and out of respect for the constitution,” Chakwera stated.
“I am fully committed to … a peaceful transfer of power.”
While noting his camp was unhappy with certain “anomalies” in the vote counting, he admitted they were insufficient to alter the outcome. He drew a sports analogy to explain his decision:
“Even in sports, foul play does not mean the final score is not a true reflection of the game….”
The announcement triggered celebrations among Mutharika’s supporters at the national results centre.
This election was the fourth consecutive presidential contest between the two political rivals. Mutharika won in 2014 and 2019, though the latter victory was annulled by the constitutional court due to widespread irregularities. Chakwera then won the historic re-run in 2020.
Political analysts had predicted a strong challenge from Mutharika, as Chakwera’s term was marked by significant economic hardship. Malawi has faced inflation above 20% for over three years, exacerbated by a devastating cyclone and a severe regional drought that crippled agriculture.
Nearly three-quarters of the population lives in poverty, according to the World Bank.
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