Eleven Candidates Eye Malawi Presidency As Nomination Process Commences
June 19, 2025
By Joseph Dumbula
Former President Peter Mutharika and incumbent Lazarus Chakwera are the leading candidates
As the political landscape heats up in Malawi, the race for the presidency is shaping into a competitive affair with eleven candidates officially expressing their intention to run in the upcoming elections scheduled for this September.
Among the notable names adding fuel to the rivalry are incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera, former President Arthur Peter Mutharika, and the emerging contender Dalitso Kabambe, all of whom are expected to engage in a fierce battle for the nation’s top office.
As of the close of business on June 18, 2025, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) confirmed that a total of eleven nomination papers have been collected.
The candidates, representing a mix of political parties and independent status, are set to vie for a chance to lead the country amidst ongoing economic and social challenges.
The current list of presidential hopefuls includes:
1. Milward Tobias: Independent
2. Adil James Chilungo: Independent
3. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera: Malawi Congress Party
7. Atupele Austin Muluzi: United Democratic Front (UDF)
8. Reverend Hardwick Kaliya: Independent
9. Arthur Peter Mutharika: Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)
10. Frank Tumpale Mwenifumbo: National Development Party (NDP)
11. Dalitso Kabambe: UTM
With just over a month until the official nomination period begins on July 24, many political analysts are pondering the implications of this broad field of candidates.
Dr. Grace Chirwa, a political analyst at the University of Malawi, remarked in local media "The presence of a diverse group of candidates indicates a robust democratic process, but it also challenges voters to make sense of their options ahead of the elections."
Each candidate brings unique perspectives and backgrounds, promising various approaches to tackle Malawi’s pressing issues such as poverty alleviation, job creation, and corruption.
President Chakwera is expected to leverage his incumbency and achievements during his administration, while Mutharika, who previously served as president from 2014 to 2020, will likely invoke nostalgia and experience to rally supporters.
Meanwhile, Kabambe, having recently emerged as a formidable figure in the UTM, is poised to attract the younger demographic looking for fresh leadership.
Malawi Electoral Commission Sangwani Mwafulirwa stated, “We encourage all aspiring candidates to ensure the timely completion of their nomination papers and associated fees. The election process is critical for the democratic fabric of our nation, and we urge all stakeholders to participate actively.”
The commission has reiterated that the window for collecting nomination papers will remain open until July 30, 2025, allowing sufficient time for potential candidates to join the fray. Candidates are also encouraged to consult with the Constituency Returning Officers (CRO) for pre-inspection of their nomination documents to avoid any last-minute issues.
Over seven million Malawians are due to vote for ward councillors, members of parliament and ultimately a President.
