Introduction
The upcoming general elections in the Republic of Malawi, scheduled for September 2025, have garnered significant interest among stakeholders in the region. These elections signify a pivotal moment in the nation’s democratic journey. In the lead-up to the polls, citizens of Malawi have raised concerns about misgovernance, corruption, and the current administration's failure to address escalating economic challenges which has resulted in extreme poverty levels in the country. These issues are considered critical and defining to the outcome of the upcoming elections. This paper is a product of our interviews and stakeholder engagement with citizens and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Malawi. Below are key issues about the political context, legal framework, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), voter registration, political parties, campaign finances, the role of media, and civil society that African citizens should know as they pay close attention to Malawi’s 2025 elections.
Context and Key Issues
Malawi’s electoral history has not been without controversy, most notably the 2019 elections, which were annulled by the courts due to widespread irregularities. This landmark ruling exposed systemic flaws in the electoral process and highlighted the urgent need for reforms. As the nation approaches the 2025 elections, memories of the 2019 elections are fresh. Citizens are wary, there are questions surrounding the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. On the other hand, the broader political landscape is marked by strategic alliances and power struggles, with the ruling party the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), and the main opposition party the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) navigating challenges including internal party conflicts and disagreements, just a few weeks ahead of the elections.
As of May 2025, Malawi’s population exceeds 24 million, with approximately 10.9 million eligible voters by September 2025. However, only 7.2 million individuals registered to vote, representing 65.7% of the adult population. On a positive note, MEC has registered 137,925 registered voters with various disabilities, representing about 1.92% of all registered voters. These voters are categorised as follows: a). Persons with visual impairments 18,567 b). Persons with hearing impairments 13,604 c). Persons with speech impairments 5,361 d). Persons with upper limb disabilities 2,531 e). Persons with other forms of disabilities 101,981. Despite the success in registration of persons with disability, the generally perceived voter apathy has been attributed to inadequate civic and voter education, frustration over unfulfilled campaign promises, and lack of ‘real’ choice among the electorate.
Many citizens have opted to focus on income-generating activities, rather than to participate in the electoral process, highlighting a disconnect between political parties and the electorate. At the heart of political tensions ahead of the elections is attributed to the state of the failing economy. For instance, the rising inflation, foreign exchange shortages, and poverty have eroded public trust in the current administration. Over 70% of Malawians live on less than $2.15 per day, highlighting the severity of economic challenges. Education, healthcare, and infrastructure development are key issues that voters hope will be addressed by the next government. President Lazarus Chakwera’s administration has faced criticism for its failure to meet most of its 2019 promises and its handling of economic and governance issues. Corruption scandals and tribalism in governance have further alienated citizens, raising doubts about the transformative leadership many had hoped for. In addition, the lack of clarity surrounding the Saulos Chilima plane crash has also fuelled concerns about government accountability.
The delay in passing the Presidential, Parliamentary, and Local Government Elections Bill of 2025 has raised concerns about the legal framework governing the elections. Proposed amendments aim to streamline the resolution of electoral disputes and enhance the role of the Supreme Court of Appeal. These reforms are crucial for ensuring a credible electoral process. The implementation of the 50+1 system, requiring a presidential candidate to secure an absolute majority, has transformed electoral strategies. With no single party likely to secure a majority, coalition-building has become a key focus. This dynamic adds an element of unpredictability to the elections, as shifting alliances and emerging parties reshape the political landscape. However, if no presidential candidate attains the fifty percent plus one valid vote threshold to win the election, MEC will need to conduct a second election within 60 days. The Commission will need K97.9 billion (55.8 million USD approximately) for this second election. This amount is not in the budget allocated to the MEC this year.
Tensions have emerged during the nomination process for parliamentary and local council candidates. Political parties have often favored candidates who lack popular support, leading to postponed or canceled primary elections. With 23 registered parties, the political landscape remains fragmented, and it is unclear how many will field candidates at all levels. The approved nomination fees are as follows: Presidential Election All candidates: K10,000,000 (USD 5700 approximately) Parliamentary Election - Male candidates: K2,500,000 (USD 1600 approximately) Female candidates: K1,250,000 Persons with disabilities: K1,250,000 Youth (under 35 years): K1,250,000 (USD 720 approximately). Local Government Election Male candidates: K200,000 (USD 115) Female candidates: K100,000 Persons with disabilities: K100,000, Youth (under 35 years): K100,00 (USD 55 approximately). In a country with high levels of poverty, the nomination fees have been deemed excessive. The official campaign period for the 2025 General Election will commence on 14th July 2025 and close on 14th September 2025 at 6:00 a.m. During this period, candidates and political parties will be permitted to freely canvass for votes, by provisions of the Political Parties Act and the rules and regulations set by the Commission by the existing electoral laws.
State funding for political parties remains inadequate, creating an uneven playing field between the ruling party and opposition parties. The European Union's pledge of €16.5 million to support voter education and transparency in campaign financing is a positive step, but concerns persist about the lack of clarity on how campaigns are funded and managed. Malawi’s media is largely free, with balanced coverage of electoral processes. However, state media’s limited coverage of opposition campaigns and the growing influence of social media raise concerns about misinformation. Civil society organizations play a vital role in voter education but face funding constraints that limit their impact. The Malawi Electoral Commission remains a spotlight amid the political tensions in the country, with concerns over the transparency and credibility of the Commission.
Conclusion
The 2025 elections in Malawi are more than a political event; they reflect the nation’s struggles and aspirations. As citizens and stakeholders anticipate this pivotal moment, the need for transparency, accountability, and meaningful reforms cannot be overstated. The outcome of these elections will not only determine the future of Malawi’s leadership but also its path toward a more equitable and prosperous society.