Malawi's Presidential Poll: A Nation Hopes for Economic Change

Tue Oct 21 2025 08:26:53 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Malawi awaits the presidential election results with hopes for economic improvement. Current President Lazarus Chakwera faces off against former leader Peter Mutharika as citizens demand change amid rising food costs and persistent fuel shortages.

As the votes are being counted in Malawi's presidential election, citizens express their hopes for change amidst ongoing economic struggles. The current president, Lazarus Chakwera, is vying for a second term against former president Peter Mutharika, with voters eager for solutions to high inflation rates and food insecurity. If no candidate wins over 50% of the vote, a run-off will ensue. Voter turnout was notably low, with only half of registered voters casting their ballots, while issues arose at polling stations, including delays due to biometric systems.

Malawians are anxiously awaiting the results of their presidential election, which closed on Tuesday as counting begins across the country. Voters hope for a change in leadership as they face significant economic challenges, including soaring food prices and a shortage of fuel.

Thousands lined up outside polling stations, determined to vote for their next president, members of parliament, and local councilors. Polling took place amid a backdrop of frustration over the country's economic woes, with both current President Lazarus Chakwera and his main opponent, former president Peter Mutharika, promising to address economic issues. If no candidate secures more than half the votes, a runoff will determine the victor.

There's anger in us. I want to change this government. I want young people to be in good jobs, stated 28-year-old waitress Ettah Nyasulu. With food costs rising over 30% and wages stagnant, many voters are demanding change.

Malawi, one of the poorest countries in the world, faces grave economic difficulties exacerbated by high inflation rates, affecting both daily living and employment opportunities. Long queues for fuel and ongoing power outages compound the frustration felt by the electorate.

As counting begins, the electoral commission has up until September 24 to announce presidential results, a deadline that will be closely watched by the nation.