CIVICUS speaks about Malawi’s 16 September general election with Tadala Chumachiyenda and Tamika Nyirenda-Banda of the Democracy Works Foundation.

The opposition won the last election in 2020, when Lazarus Chakwera and the Tonse Alliance electoral coalition defeated incumbent Peter Mutharika and the Democratic Progressive Party. The election was rerun after a February 2020 Constitutional Court ruling annulled Mutharika’s 2019 victory due to widespread irregularities. This judicial intervention marked a historic moment for Malawi’s democracy, and the next election represents another crucial test for democratic institutions in a country that has endured decades of poverty and economic stagnation.

How has Malawi’s election campaign unfolded, and who are the main candidates?

Malawi has been immersed in an intense and competitive campaign period as the country heads towards the general election. Since a 2020 constitutional amendment, the presidential election requires a candidate to secure an absolute majority of over 50 per cent in the first poll to avoid a second round 60 days after. This raises the stakes for all contenders.

There are 24 registered political parties and 17 presidential candidates, but the main figures are incumbent President Dr Lazarus Chakwera of the Malawi Congress Party, former president Arthur Peter Mutharika of the Democratic People’s Party, former president Joyce Banda of the People’s Party, Dr Dalitso Kabambe of the United Transformation Movement and Atupele Muluzi of the United Democratic Front.

The collapse of the once-dominant Tonse Alliance and a divided opposition have reshaped the political landscape, leaving parties and candidates scrambling to form strategic partnerships while appealing to voters who face significant economic and governance challenges.

What are voters’ main concerns, and how are parties addressing them?

Public trust in institutions remains fragile, particularly after the Constitutional Court’s annulment of the 2019 presidential election due to procedural irregularities. This was a historic moment that reinforced trust in the judiciary but exposed weaknesses in the management of elections. People now expect elections to be transparent and accountable, and they are more vigilant about monitoring procedures and scrutinising results, knowing that irregularities can be challenged and overturned through judicial processes.

Economic challenges further strain voters, with inflation near 27 per cent, rising unemployment, fuel shortages and high commodity prices, all of which make voters vulnerable to handouts from politicians even though the 2018 Political Parties Act clearly forbids it. Each party has presented proposals to address these issues, from creating three million jobs and decentralising the national budget to stronger fiscal discipline and economic modernisation. But years of unfulfilled promises and persistent corruption have eroded public confidence. Many voters are sceptical about campaign pledges, and apathy has grown as people doubt whether political leaders will deliver meaningful change.

Misinformation, particularly online, and biased coverage in some traditional media complicates the electoral landscape and limits voters’ ability to make informed choices. Campaigns often end up relying on personal attacks and name-calling rather than policy debates, reducing the electorate’s capacity to evaluate candidates on substantive issues.

What role is civil society playing in ensuring transparent and credible elections?

Civil society organisations (CSOs) play a key role in holding politicians accountable and safeguarding electoral integrity. They engage with the Malawi Electoral Commission through platforms such as the National Electoral Consultative Forum. The Commission has accredited 60 independent Malawian and international CSOs and individuals to observe the 2025 general election, flag irregularities and ensure compliance with national and international standards.

CSOs also work to raise awareness about the importance of civic engagement. Several organisations have been active at national and grassroot levels to promote a credible electoral process and encourage women and young people to participate as voters and candidates.

Civic space in Malawi remains relatively open, which allows CSOs and citizens to engage on matters of public interest, but there are still some concerning instances of intimidation and violence. For example, human rights activist Sylvester Namiwa was attacked during a peaceful protest against the Malawi Electoral Commission in June. Incidents like this highlight the urgent need for reforms that safeguard civic freedoms and ensure accountability. The incoming leadership will bear a critical responsibility to uphold constitutional rights, protect civil society and foster an environment where people can express dissent without fear.

How might the election outcome affect Malawi’s regional and international relations?

The international community is closely watching Malawi’s commitment to tackling corruption and strengthening governance. Failure to address these challenges could strain relations with development partners, discourage investment and undermine confidence in the country’s institutions. Likewise, if any political party rejects the election outcome or if unrest or violence occurs, it could threaten Malawi’s peace and stability.

Yet there is reason for cautious optimism. Malawi has a history of maintaining strong diplomatic relations and upholding electoral standards, including the 2020 annulment that raised the bar for electoral integrity. These elections will test the country’s ability to preserve that reputation while ensuring a credible, transparent and peaceful process.