Malawi’s President Chakwera concedes election defeat
Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera has conceded defeat in this month’s presidential election and pledged to oversee a peaceful transition.
In a statement delivered on Wednesday, he said, “It is only right that I concede defeat out of respect for your will as citizens and out of respect for the constitution.”
He confirmed that he had personally called Mutharika, the Democratic Progressive Party candidate, to congratulate him on what he termed as a “historic victory.”
“A few minutes ago, I called Professor Mutharika to wish him well,” Chakwera said
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) is expected to release the official final results late on Wednesday; however, partial results from 24 of the country’s 36 councils already gave Mutharika a strong lead.
“In the days that remain before my successor takes his oath of office, I am fully committed to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power,” he said, adding that his staff had been instructed to prepare state residences for the incoming administration.
Also in his statement, Chakwera praised the electoral commission for conducting the polls in a peaceful, orderly, and lawful manner. The outgoing head of state, who came to power in 2020 after a court-ordered rerun election, thanked Malawians for their support during his five-year tenure and pledged to ensure a smooth transition.
“In the days that remain, I want you to know that I am committed to a peaceful transfer of power,” Chakwera said.
He then concluded by wishing Professor Mutharika’s success in leading Malawi towards prosperity and urged the people of Malawi to support him.
