Election Day in Malawi: Voters Head to the Polls Amid Economic Struggles

Tue Sep 16 2025 13:20:26 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Malawians are casting their votes in a critical presidential and parliamentary election marked by economic hardships, fuel shortages, and corruption allegations. President Lazarus Chakwera seeks a second term against rival Peter Mutharika.

As Malawians vote in presidential and parliamentary elections, they face a challenging economic backdrop characterized by rising living costs and recent fuel shortages. President Lazarus Chakwera aims for reelection against former president Peter Mutharika. A potential runoff looms if no candidate secures over 50% of the votes.

Malawi is in the midst of an important electoral event as citizens head to the polls today to vote in presidential and parliamentary elections. This election comes after a tumultuous five years, marked by severe economic challenges that have gripped the southern African nation.

The current president, Lazarus Chakwera, is seeking a second term while his primary opponent, Peter Mutharika, an elder statesman with previous presidential experience, aims to reclaim the presidency.

Voters in urban areas are particularly impacted by fuel shortages, resulting in long lines at gas stations, while the overall cost of living remains a significant worry for many.

A runoff election is expected if no candidate garners more than 50% of the votes cast today.

Election Details: What Will Malawians Vote For?

With polling stations opening at 04:00 GMT, approximately 7.2 million registered voters will choose from:

Presidential - 17 candidates, including Chakwera and Mutharika.
Parliamentary - Election of 229 constituency MPs.
Local - 509 councilor positions.

Key Issues Impacting Voters

In this election, economic hardships dominate voter concerns. Malawi has faced economic difficulties exacerbated by natural disasters, including Cyclone Freddy, which caused devastation in 2023, and a drought in subsequent years, leading to skyrocketing food prices.

Corruption remains a significant issue; Chakwera's administration has struggled with allegations of corrupt practices, and political scandals continue to influence public trust.

Will Elections Be Free and Fair?

Despite concerns regarding the impartiality of the electoral commission, the recent history of judicial intervention during elections lends some hope to voters for a fair electoral process.

The counting of ballots will start as soon as polling closes at 14:00 GMT, with results expected within a few weeks. A crucial chapter of Malawian democracy unfolds as voters express their desires for change in a challenging socio-economic landscape.