Peter Mutharika has been designated the Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate in the 2025 Malawi presidential election, marking a return to politics after losing to President Chakwera in 2020. The election will be a rematch of their previous contests, as Mr. Mutharika aims to challenge the incumbent’s record amidst internal party disputes and criticisms regarding his age and leadership potential.
Peter Mutharika, the former president of Malawi, has been selected to represent the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for 2025. At 84 years of age, Mr. Mutharika previously indicated he would not seek re-election but has now expressed his willingness to return to leadership, citing the desire of his supporters for him to rescue the nation from current governance under President Lazarus Chakwera.
His rivalry with President Chakwera dates back to the 2020 election, where Mr. Mutharika was defeated after a court annulled the previous year’s results due to significant electoral irregularities, such as ballot manipulation. This legal decision was viewed positively, showcasing judicial independence, although it exposed serious factionalism within Mutharika’s party.
Despite internal conflicts leading to the expulsion of dissenting party members, Mr. Mutharika was unopposed for the DPP presidency, affirming his candidacy for the upcoming election. This forthcoming contest will see him and President Chakwera face off for the third time, each having previously secured one victory against the other.
Mr. Mutharika addressed the DPP supporters, asserting his readiness to reclaim authority to overturn what he considers an ineffective government. His critics contend that the party should nominate a younger candidate, as Mr. Chakwera is significantly younger at 69 years old.
President Chakwera has struggled to fulfill his campaign promises of job creation and tackling corruption, attributing challenges to global events such as COVID-19 and recent natural disasters. Nonetheless, government officials highlight successes in infrastructure development, including the revival of train services and major road construction in Lilongwe, strengthening their re-election campaign.
As the elections approach, the ruling Malawi Congress Party will need to defend its track record and may leverage Mr. Mutharika’s age to question his capabilities for governance. The electoral landscape indicates a highly competitive race for both candidates in the upcoming presidential polls.
In summary, Peter Mutharika’s unexpected candidacy for the DPP in the 2025 Malawi presidential election marks a significant turning point in Malawian politics. The rivalry with President Lazarus Chakwera is set to intensify, with both leaders having previously achieved victory and defeat against the other. The outcome will depend on party support, governance records, and the ability to connect with the electorate regarding age and competency.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
