Malawi’s President Peter Mutharika has been sworn in for a second term, vowing to tackle government corruption and rebuild the country’s ailing economy.
The 85-year-old leader secured over 56% of votes in the September 16 election, defeating outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera, who garnered 33%.
Mutharika’s inauguration ceremony in Blantyre’s Kamuzu Stadium was attended by thousands of supporters, government officials, and African heads of state.
In his inaugural address, Mutharika acknowledged the country’s economic crisis, citing acute food shortages, cost-of-living pressures, and a lack of foreign exchange. “There is no money in government. Borrowing is extremely high, and nobody knows where the borrowed money has gone,” he said, promising to “fix this country” with hard work and tough decisions.
Mutharika also appealed to the international community for investment, directly addressing US President Donald Trump and announcing plans to send a delegation to America to discuss Malawi’s prospects.
Key Challenges Ahead:
- Economic Recovery: Mutharika’s administration faces significant economic challenges, including stabilizing the national currency, managing debt, and stimulating economic growth.
- Corruption: The new administration has pledged to prioritize transparency in government contracts, improve efficiency across public institutions, and strengthen the rule of law.
- Investment: Mutharika’s government aims to attract investment from the international community, particularly from the US, to support economic development.
