Malawi’s citizens are awaiting the outcome of their presidential election, with polling stations closing and the counting of votes underway. On Tuesday, many voters lined up to select candidates for the presidency, parliamentary seats, and local councils, motivated by a desire for economic improvements in a country currently facing significant challenges.
Current President Lazarus Chakwera is seeking a second term, promising to address the nation’s economic issues, a sentiment echoed by his main opponent, former President Peter Mutharika. As stipulated by electoral rules, if no candidate secures over 50% of the votes, a run-off will be held between the top two contenders.
Rising food costs and stagnant wages have exacerbated economic frustrations, with inflation reportedly exceeding 30% over the past year. A shortage of foreign currency has contributed to these inflationary pressures. Many voters, particularly young people, have expressed concerns about unemployment and economic instability and are eager for change.
Voters have also faced ongoing issues with power outages and fuel shortages, with long lines forming outside petrol stations. President Chakwera was seen voting in his home village while being accompanied by police and military personnel, as security remains a priority during the electoral process.
The election features a total of 17 candidates, including Joyce Banda, the country’s first female president, although the primary contest is between Chakwera and Mutharika. According to the Malawi Electoral Commission, only about half of the registered 7.4 million voters participated in this election. While voting was mostly efficient, some stations encountered delays due to technical issues with biometric fingerprint readers.
Election officials have implemented alternative voting methods for those unable to write and reminded voters of the regulations against photographing their ballots. The official results for the presidential election must be announced by September 24, and parliamentary results by September 30.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y56req0g1o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss