On a bright Saturday morning, the city of Lilongwe buzzed with anticipation as thousands gathered to witness a moment few had predicted: Peter Mutharika, at 85 years old, was sworn in as Malawi’s seventh president, staging one of Africa’s most remarkable political comebacks. The ceremony, held at Kamuzu Stadium, marked not only a dramatic return for the former leader but also a pivotal turning point for a nation in distress.
According to AP, Mutharika’s inauguration on October 4, 2025, followed a decisive victory in the September 16 election, where he secured 56% of the vote against incumbent Lazarus Chakwera’s 33%. This landslide was more than a personal vindication for Mutharika—it was a reversal of fortune after his 2019 election win was nullified by the courts due to widespread irregularities, forcing him to relinquish power in 2020. Now, he returns as Africa’s second-oldest leader, trailing only Cameroon’s Paul Biya, who is 92, as reported by The South African.
But nostalgia and experience alone won’t solve Malawi’s mounting problems. The country, among the world’s least developed, is reeling from a severe economic emergency. As Africanews details, inflation is soaring, and critical shortages of fuel and foreign exchange have left many Malawians frustrated and anxious. Food insecurity has deepened, exacerbated by recent climate shocks—a devastating cyclone in 2023 and a drought last year that decimated crops, according to AP. Malawi’s heavy reliance on agriculture has made it particularly vulnerable to these disasters, leaving millions at risk.
Mutharika, a Yale-educated law professor, did not shy away from the gravity of the situation during his inaugural address. “Our nation is in crisis. There is no food, no foreign exchange. This is a man-made crisis,” he declared before the packed stadium, pointedly blaming the previous administration for the country’s plight. “We will fix this country. I don’t promise you milk and honey, but hard work.” His words, reported by AP and Africanews, struck a chord with many who have seen their purchasing power eroded and their daily lives upended.
Throughout his speech, Mutharika emphasized his commitment to combating corruption—a theme that has resonated with voters but also raised eyebrows, given past graft allegations during his first term. “We will clamp down on corruption,” he vowed, as quoted in AP. He also stressed a shift in approach to international relations, promising to seek investment rather than aid, a strategy he believes will foster lasting partnerships and sustainable growth. “Malawi seeks partnerships, not handouts,” Mutharika said, signaling a desire to move away from dependency and toward self-reliance.
The international community has taken note. Mutharika praised the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union for their support in the fight against corruption. He revealed that a Malawian delegation would soon travel to Washington to negotiate following the cutting of U.S. aid that has recently hampered Malawi’s development efforts. Adding a personal touch, Mutharika shared that U.S. President Donald Trump had sent him a message of congratulations, underscoring the importance of continued diplomatic engagement.
Yet, the challenges ahead are formidable. Malawi’s economic woes are not just a result of mismanagement; they are compounded by global trends and local vulnerabilities. The country’s dependence on agriculture makes it susceptible to the whims of weather and international commodity prices. The recent climate shocks—especially the cyclone and drought—have only deepened the crisis, as noted by AP. Shortages of fuel and foreign exchange have led to long lines at petrol stations and a thriving black market, while inflation has pushed basic goods out of reach for many families.
Supporters of Mutharika, as highlighted by The South African, argue that his experience and steady hand are precisely what Malawi needs in these turbulent times. They point to his previous tenure from 2014 to 2020 as a period when, despite its controversies, the country saw some stability and efforts to modernize infrastructure. However, critics worry that at 85, Mutharika’s age could affect his stamina, ability to connect with younger generations, and the long-term vision required to steer the nation through its current challenges. The debate over Africa’s so-called “gerontocracy” has only intensified with his return, raising questions about succession and the need for generational change.
Still, the mood at Kamuzu Stadium was one of cautious optimism. While former President Chakwera did not attend the inauguration, his Malawi Congress Party sent a message of goodwill, signaling a willingness to respect the democratic process, as reported by AP. For many Malawians, the hope is that Mutharika’s second act will bring not only stability but also tangible improvements in their daily lives.
Mutharika’s pledge to “fix this country” is ambitious, especially given the scale of the crisis. As he takes the reins, he faces the immediate task of restoring confidence in government, stabilizing the economy, and addressing the urgent needs of millions facing hunger and uncertainty. His promise to root out corruption will be closely watched, both at home and abroad, as will his efforts to attract meaningful investment that can create jobs and spur growth.
Whether Mutharika’s advanced age proves to be a liability or an asset remains to be seen. His supporters believe his decades of experience and international connections could help Malawi navigate its current storm. Detractors, however, caution that real change requires not just experience but also innovation and an ability to inspire a new generation of leaders.
For now, Malawi stands at a crossroads. Peter Mutharika’s return to the presidency is a testament to political resilience and the unpredictability of African politics. As the country grapples with inflation, shortages, and the lingering effects of climate disaster, the eyes of the nation—and indeed the continent—are watching to see whether this elder statesman can deliver on his promise to rebuild a battered nation. The coming months will reveal whether Malawi’s oldest leader can also be its most effective.
