BLANTYRE, Malawi — Malawi has begun counting votes from a closely watched presidential election that could go to a runoff.
The election comes as the nation struggles with rising inflation, a fuel shortage, and a cost-of-living crisis that has left many families struggling to afford basic goods.
Voters faced a crucial choice: whether to re-elect President Lazarus Chakwera, 70, for a second and final term or hand power to an opposition challenger promising bold economic reforms.
Election observers reported generally peaceful voting, though some polling stations stayed open later than expected due to long lines. The Malawi Electoral Commission has urged patience as the tallying process begins, warning that early results may not reflect the final outcome.
This vote is widely seen as a test of Malawi’s young democracy and could head to a runoff if no candidate secures more than 50 percent of the vote. A second round would be held within 30 days, as required by law.
Malawi, one of the world’s least-developed countries, has been hit hard by a combination of global fuel price hikes, local currency depreciation, and severe weather that disrupted harvests.
Many citizens hope the next administration will bring solutions to high food and fuel costs, as well as create jobs for the country’s growing youth population.
Regional and international observers from the African Union and the European Union are monitoring the process to ensure transparency. Official results are expected within eight days.
For Malawians, this election is more than just a contest between old rivals — it is a referendum on how to address a deepening economic crisis and restore hope for a better future.
