By Ollus Ndomu
Former Malawian President Bakili Muluzi has entered the post-election fray, urging President Lazarus Chakwera to accept likely defeat and congratulate Peter Mutharika, who leads decisively in partial results of the September 16 vote.
With results declared from 24 of 36 electoral councils, Mutharika has secured about 66 percent of valid ballots, Chakwera trails at roughly 24 percent. To win outright, a candidate must surpass 50 percent +1 of the valid vote.
Chakwera’s camp is not conceding. MCP leaders are alleging widespread irregularities. They insist tallies are being manipulated and that the Electoral Commission has failed to adequately safeguard the process. Legal challenges are being hinted at.
Muluzi’s call for concession is seen by many as a stabilising move, meant to defuse tensions that could escalate should Chakwera refuse. The former president framed it as “life after State House,” urging acceptance of the emerging results.
The backdrop matters. Malawi is still haunted by its 2019 election, annulled on account of irregularities. That decision forced a rerun in 2020, which Chakwera then won. Observers caution that this history adds urgency and fragility to today’s process.
If Mutharika’s lead holds through the remaining councils, he may avoid a runoff and return to power without legal challenge. But with accusations of manipulation rising, public confidence is at stake. A hurried or opaque confirmation could undermine legitimacy.
Across Southern Africa, these developments are being closely watched. The region has seen politics tested by close elections, economic discontent, and climate crises. A peaceful transition or a contested one will echo beyond Malawi’s borders.
Full results are expected this evening or by tomorrow, September 24, as per rules binding the Electoral Commission to verify all tallies before declaration.
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