Peter Mutharika was sworn in on Saturday as Malawi’s president, marking a dramatic political comeback for the 85-year-old former leader who previously governed the southern African nation from 2014 to 2020.
Mutharika reclaimed power after a resounding victory in the September 16 election, securing 56% of the votes to defeat incumbent Lazarus Chakwera, who polled 33%.
His return comes five years after his controversial 2019 re-election was annulled by the courts over widespread irregularities.
Addressing a cheering crowd at Kamuzu Stadium, Mutharika admitted that the country faces daunting economic challenges. “Our nation is in crisis.
This is a man-made crisis,” he declared, blaming the previous administration for the worsening situation.
Malawi, one of the world’s poorest countries, is currently struggling with soaring inflation, acute fuel shortages, and dwindling foreign exchange reserves.
Mutharika vowed to restore stability through “hard work, honesty, and discipline,” pledging to fight corruption and attract foreign investment rather than rely on aid.
Observers say his leadership will be tested by how he tackles the twin crises of economic decline and climate stress that have deepened Malawi’s hardship.
