Malawi’s President Peter Mutharika was sworn in on Saturday for a second term in office, promising to tackle deep-rooted corruption and revive the struggling economy. The 85-year-old leader of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) secured more than 56 percent of the vote in the September 16 election, defeating outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera, who garnered 33 percent.
The election marked the fourth political face-off between Mutharika and Chakwera, with voters this time opting for change after five years of economic decline under the previous administration.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at a packed stadium in Blantyre, Malawi’s commercial hub, where thousands of DPP supporters donned the party’s signature blue and white colors. The event was attended by several African heads of state and government officials.
In his inaugural speech, Mutharika painted a grim picture of the country’s financial situation, citing high debt levels, depleted foreign exchange reserves, and ongoing fuel and food shortages. “There is no money in government. Borrowing is extremely high, and nobody knows where the borrowed money has gone,” he said.
However, the president assured citizens that his administration would focus on fiscal discipline and accountability. “We will fix this country,” he declared. “I don’t promise you milk and honey. I promise you hard work, tough and painful decisions. The honeymoon of looting government is over.”
Mutharika also extended a hand to the international community, urging investors to return to Malawi and promising to restore confidence in government institutions. He specifically addressed U.S. President Donald Trump, saying he would soon send a delegation to Washington to discuss development cooperation, particularly after recent cuts in U.S. foreign aid.
In a statement, Chakwera’s Malawi Congress Party congratulated Mutharika and wished him good health and success in leading the nation toward recovery.
