Malawi’s 2.0 President: The People’s Vote
- Kamogelo Theledi
- Sep 30
- 2 min read
Across the African continent, the will of the people has laid the foundation for many democracies. In South Africa, the Freedom Charter declared, “the people shall govern.” Similarly, Zimbabwe's 2013 Constitution acknowledges the “sovereignty of the people.” These declarations are enduring reminders of where true political authority should lie.
The reputation of African leaders has often proved complex. Liberation movements that once stood for freedom and justice have, in some cases, faced the tests of corruption, authoritarianism, and governance challenges. The Afrobarometer survey, a large-scale pan-African study, has consistently documented a decline in public trust in key institutions. Across 39 countries, the majority of people continue to trust religious leaders, the army, and traditional authorities, but confidence in presidents, parliaments, courts, and police has eroded.
Since 2011, trust in parliaments alone has dropped by double digits. The most recent round of data collection, conducted between late 2021 and mid-2023, confirms this downward trend. The October 2024 report found that across the continent public trust in key institutions and leaders was weakening. Against this backdrop, the return of a former leader to power often raises questions about continuity and change. However, Malawi has offered a new perspective on this narrative.
At 85 years old, Peter Mutharika, once thought to have retired from politics, has been elected president once again. Official results show he secured 57% of the vote, compared to 33% for incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera. Mutharika, a former law professor, previously governed Malawi from 2014 to 2020. Now, he returns to office at a moment when Malawians are eager for stability, growth, and solutions to everyday challenges.
The past five years have brought many difficulties: rising living costs, foreign currency shortages, frequent power cuts, and persistent economic pressures that have weighed heavily on households. These challenges, while daunting, have also sharpened the public’s call for strong and decisive leadership.
The September 16 election was not only a political contest but also a powerful expression of the people’s vote. Mutharika’s campaign message, “a return to proven leadership”, resonated with citizens looking for renewal and direction. His second administration now carries the promise of addressing inflation, strengthening institutions, and restoring confidence in Malawi’s future. Mutharika’s 2.0 administration is, above all, the voice of the people in an active and vibrant democracy.
