Chakwera vs. Mutharika: Malawi’s Presidential Vote Count Is Underway Amid Challenges

LILONGWE – Vote counting is currently underway in Malawi following the closure of polling stations at 14:00 GMT on Tuesday, marking the end of a closely watched presidential election.

Incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera is seeking a second term, facing off against former President Peter Mutharika in a race largely focused on economic recovery.

Despite some technical setbacks, approximately 3.7 million ballots were cast across the country.

Several polling stations experienced delays due to biometric fingerprint reader malfunctions, which led to long queues and slower processing.

The Malawi Electoral Commission acknowledged the disruptions, citing “queueing challenges,” but confirmed that voting continued smoothly once the issues were resolved.

According to Africanews, provisions were made for voters who were unable to write, allowing them to mark their ballots using inked fingerprints or traditional pens.

Electoral officials emphasized that the process remained inclusive and orderly, despite the early technical difficulties.

If no candidate secures more than 50 percent of the vote, a run-off will be held.

While the contest is widely seen as a two-man race between Chakwera and Mutharika, 15 other candidates are also on the ballot, including former Head of State Joyce Banda and another former president.

The Malawi Electoral Commission is expected to announce presidential results by September 24, with parliamentary outcomes due by September 30.