By Edwin Mauluka
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has reprimanded political parties and candidates for prematurely declaring victory, as main challenger and former president Peter Mutharika of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) widens his lead over incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
“Speak the truth and be responsible,” said MEC chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja on Sunday night as she delivered the third update on presidential results and tally progress.
MEC noted “with sadness” that some parties and candidates were claiming victory. “It is only the Commission that is mandated to declare the winner. Despite freedom of speech and politicians’ right to speak to followers, remember your responsibility. You must speak the truth, avoid dividing the nation, and comply with electoral laws,” Mtalimanja cautioned.
Turning to results, she announced outcomes from four councils — Chitipa, Rumphi, Mulanje, and Mzuzu City — bringing to 13 the number of councils declared so far.
From these councils, DPP’s Mutharika secured 298,457 votes, while MCP’s Chakwera trailed with 56,630. Overall, from 13 councils, Mutharika leads with 501,837 votes against Chakwera’s 210,137. The Forum estimates Mutharika’s lead against Chakwera to be 70% of announced results.
As of 8:00 PM Sunday, results from all 229 constituencies had been captured and transmitted through the Results Management System. District summaries were also posted publicly at tally centres. MEC confirmed that 35 of 36 councils had submitted results to the National Tally Centre, with Mangochi District still en route.
Council breakdown (announced Sunday night):
- Chitipa: 68,131 voted (78.3% turnout). Mutharika 35,827; Chakwera 13,936.
- Rumphi: 67,982 voted (71.6% turnout). Mutharika 29,957; Chakwera 24,486.
- Mulanje: 231,763 voted (82.8% turnout). Mutharika 207,596; Chakwera 3,195.
- Mzuzu City: 56,776 voted (74.1% turnout). Mutharika 25,077; Chakwera 15,013.
