Malawi: Blantyre Endorses Imminent Comeback Of Former President Mutharika

By Prince Kurupati

Thousands of excited Malawians filled the streets of Blantyre today, rallying behind former President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika as he campaigns for a dramatic political comeback. Mutharika, who lost power in 2020, is urging citizens to register for the highly anticipated general election scheduled for September 16, 2025.

Mutharika led Malawi from 2014 to 2020 before the Constitutional Court overturned his re-election, citing irregularities. The court’s decision led to fresh elections, in which President Lazarus Chakwera, in alliance with the late former Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, emerged victorious.

In the weeks and months before Mutharika lost power in 2020, public sentiment, primarily based on independent surveys, suggested that Malawians had grown fed up with his leadership. However, his successor Lazarus Chakwera’s presidency has also failed to inspire the nation leading many to clamour for the return of Mutharika.

Recent polls suggest a resurgence of support for Mutharika and his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). According to Afrobarometer, the DPP leads with 41% support, well ahead of Chakwera’s Malawi Congress Party (MCP) at 27%.

Mutharika’s rising popularity can be linked to growing discontent with Chakwera’s administration. Economic challenges such as high inflation, foreign currency shortages, and persistent fuel crises have disillusioned many Malawians. Allegations of corruption and a crackdown on dissent have further dented Chakwera’s reputation.

In contrast, Mutharika’s tenure is remembered for relative economic stability. Under his leadership, Malawi experienced steady growth, manageable inflation, and sound economic policies, including leaving office with a six-month import cover. His statesmanship during the turbulent 2019 post-election protests also bolstered his image.

The stakes are high as Malawians prepare to vote for their President, parliamentarians, and local government representatives. The election offers a choice between continuity under Chakwera or a return to Mutharika’s leadership. For many, it symbolizes hope for economic revival and political reform.
With campaigns heating up and voter registration underway, all eyes are on September 16—a date that could shape Malawi’s future.