Malawi’s former president, Peter Mutharika, has been selected to lead the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in next year’s presidential election, marking a comeback for the 84-year-old. Mutharika, who led Malawi for six years, had previously suggested he would retire from politics but recently reversed course, claiming his supporters urged him to “save the country” from President Lazarus Chakwera’s government.
Mutharika’s return follows his defeat by Chakwera in the 2020 election rerun, which was ordered after Malawi’s Constitutional Court annulled the 2019 results due to widespread electoral fraud. Despite internal party strife and the expulsion of those challenging his leadership, Mutharika was re-elected as DPP leader unopposed. He now prepares for a third showdown against Chakwera, each having won one previous contest.
Critics argue the DPP should have chosen a younger candidate, as Mutharika’s rival, Chakwera, is 15 years younger. Chakwera’s administration, which came to power on promises of tackling corruption and improving living standards, has faced challenges due to the pandemic, natural disasters, and global economic conditions. However, the government cites achievements such as reintroducing train services and ongoing road construction as signs of progress.
The upcoming election is expected to be a fierce battle, with the ruling party likely to question Mutharika’s age and capacity to govern.
