Malawians will vote for a new president, parliament members, and local councillors on September 16 after five years of economic challenges and natural disasters. Analysts predict a competition between President Lazarus Chakwera and former President Peter Mutharika. The main issues for voters are outlined here:
Economic Stagnation
Malawi, one of the poorest countries, has seen its economy stagnate since the 2020 elections, with the World Bank predicting only 2% growth this year. This marks the fourth consecutive year where the population has grown faster than the economy. An IMF program ended in May without achieving macroeconomic stability, with plans to negotiate a new program after elections. Inflation has been over 20% for three years, making essentials unaffordable. Protests occurred this year due to high inflation affecting jobs, and over 70% of Malawians live below the poverty line of $3 per day.
Corruption
Malawi has seen a long series of corruption scandals stretching back more than a decade.
Chakwera has talked tough on fighting graft since becoming head of state in 2020, but he has been criticised for handling cases selectively and corruption scandals have continued under his watch.
Hunger and Failed Harvests
Malawi has faced severe hunger crises, with millions of its people requiring food assistance last year after a severe regional drought destroyed harvests.
In 2023, one of the deadliest storms to hit Africa in the last two decades, Cyclone Freddy, also wiped out crops and caused food shortages.
Malawi’s population is especially vulnerable to extreme weather events as the majority of its population of 22 million is reliant upon subsistence agriculture for food.
Fuel Shortages
Malawians have become used to queuing for hours at fuel stations because of shortages.
In an address to the nation this week Chakwera apologised for the scarcity of fuel, alleging sabotage by officials at the state oil company. The opposition says government mismanagement is to blame.
With information from Reuters