Malawi President Mutharika Sworn In Pledges Corruption Crackdown Revival

Malawi’s newly re-elected President Peter Mutharika, sworn in for a second term, has made strong anti-corruption and economic revival pledges in response to the country's deepening crisis. Winning over 56% of the vote against Lazarus Chakwera, Mutharika vowed to end government looting, stating his administration will take "tough and painful decisions" to restore fiscal transparency and public trust. He highlighted Malawi's challenges, including severe food shortages, fuel crises, high borrowing with unclear expenditures, and a lack of foreign exchange, emphasizing that these man-made problems require human solutions. Mutharika also appealed to international partners, notably the United States, for economic support and investment to aid recovery efforts after recent aid reductions. The inauguration, attended by regional leaders and thousands of supporters, signals a shift in Malawi’s political climate toward accountability and firm governance. Outgoing President Chakwera’s party extended congratulations despite his absence at the ceremony, reflecting a peaceful political transition amid hopes for national stability and growth.