Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera has conceded defeat in the September 16, 2025 presidential election and congratulated his predecessor, Arthur Peter Mutharika, on his victory.
Chakwera, who unseated Mutharika in 2020, acknowledged the election outcome during a televised address from Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe on Tuesday, September 24.
“From those official results that [the Malawi Electoral Commission announced two nights ago], it was clear that my main rival, His Excellency Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, had already secured an insurmountable lead and is the presumptive winner of the presidential election,” Chakwera said. “It is only right that I concede defeat out of respect for your will as citizens and out of respect for the constitution.”
Mutharika Returns to Power
Partial tallies released by the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) showed Mutharika leading with 66.7% of votes from 24 of the country’s 36 councils. This tally placed him well beyond the required 50% + 1 threshold to avoid a run-off. In contrast, Chakwera trailed significantly with just 24%.
The official announcement of the final results is expected later today. However, Chakwera’s early concession is seen as a move to ensure a peaceful transition of power and uphold Malawi’s democratic values.
Political Significance
Mutharika’s return to power marks a dramatic political comeback, five years after he was defeated by Chakwera in a historic election that ended his presidency. The 2025 result underscores shifting political dynamics in Malawi, where voters have once again placed confidence in the 84-year-old leader.
Chakwera’s concession speech has drawn praise for its statesmanship, with observers noting that it sets a positive example for democratic transitions in Africa, where electoral disputes often lead to tensions.
As Malawi awaits the final confirmation of results, attention is now turning to how Mutharika will steer the nation in his second stint as president.
