The ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has pledged to accept the results of last week’s general election, while calling on electoral authorities to address concerns about alleged irregularities in the vote count.
At a press conference in Lilongwe on Sunday, MCP vice-presidential candidate Vitumbiko Mumba expressed full confidence in the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and its commitment to delivering credible results.
“The ability to declare the legitimate winner is in the hands of the MEC, and we trust the commission to ensure transparency and fairness,” Mr. Mumba said.
He added that the party had formally raised concerns about the counting process and expected them to be addressed in accordance with the law. He also warned that any proven cases of electoral fraud would be treated seriously, with appropriate action taken against those responsible.
The remarks come amid growing anticipation for the final results of the September 16 general elections, which saw Malawians vote for the president, members of parliament, and local councilors. Provisional results released by the MEC as of Sunday showed former President Peter Mutharika of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leading incumbent Lazarus Chakwera.
The election was widely viewed as a two-way race between Mutharika, 85, and Chakwera, 70, representing Malawi’s two main political parties. Mutharika, president from 2014 to 2020, campaigned on economic recovery and infrastructure development. Chakwera, elected in a court-ordered re-run in 2020, has faced criticism over corruption cases and ongoing economic challenges.
The MEC has until September 24 to announce the full provisional results. Authorities have warned candidates against prematurely declaring victory, emphasizing that all tally reports are being verified to ensure accuracy. Under Malawi’s electoral law, a candidate must secure more than 50% of valid votes to avoid a run-off.
Meanwhile, DPP Chief Electoral Officer Jean Mathanga also commended the MEC for its conduct, expressing confidence that the will of Malawians would be respected.
“We appreciate the fair management of the elections by the MEC and are confident that the final result will reflect the choice of the people,” Mr. Mathanga said.
The 2025 polls mark a critical test for Malawi’s democratic institutions, following the annulment of the 2019 presidential election due to widespread irregularities. That decision led to the historic 2020 re-run, which brought Chakwera to power.
