Malawi's political landscape is poised for a watershed moment as 20 presidential aspirants, including incumbent leader Lazarus Chakwera and two former heads of state, formally submitted nominations for the 16 September elections - marking the most crowded and competitive presidential race since the advent of multiparty democracy in 1994.

The star-studded lineup features political heavyweights from across the spectrum: Malawi Congress Party (MCP) standard-bearer Lazarus Chakwera, former presidents Peter Mutharika (Democratic Progressive Party) and Joyce Banda (People's Party), incumbent Vice President Michael Usi (Odya Zake Alibe Mlandu), Dalitso Kabambe (UTM), and UDF's Atupele Muluzi.  

The electoral roster has reignited debates about women's political participation, with Joyce Banda standing as the sole female presidential contender despite nine women securing running mate positions.  

Political scientist Yamikani Chitete says the single-digit representation of women at the presidential level reflects systemic barriers in our political architecture. 

“While running mate selections show nominal progress, true gender parity demands constitutional and party reforms to create equitable pathways to the presidency,” she offers a sobering analysis.

Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja reported smooth nomination proceedings while issuing a strong appeal for peaceful campaigns and acceptance of election outcomes.  

“The orderly nominations set a positive tone, but we must sustain this maturity through polling day," Mtalimanja cautioned. “MEC will enforce a zero-tolerance policy against electoral violence and hate speech. We advise all political parties to prepare to accept the results, as in any election there can only be one winner."

The Malawi Electoral Commission has confirmed full readiness for a potential presidential runoff, should no candidate secure the required 50%+1 majority in the September polls.  

“All financial and logistical provisions for a runoff election are in place as required by constitutional mandate," Justice Mtalimanja assured. “The necessary financial provisions have been made to cover all eventualities, including a runoff which must be held within 60 days as stipulated by law."

This preparation comes amid growing observations that the absence of electoral alliances among major parties could prevent any candidate from securing an outright first-round victory.  

Mavuto Bamusi, Publicity Secretary of the Political Scientists Association of Malawi, urges MEC to be on guard.

“While the law mandates the treasury to release funds for such an exercise, MEC must ensure all logistical and administrative preparations are finalized well in advance to guarantee a smooth process,” he notes.

With nominations closed, MEC has initiated comprehensive document verification with plans to release the final list of verified candidates between now and 8 August 2025.  

“Our legal team is conducting thorough checks on all submissions," disclosed Mtalimanja. “We will publish the certified candidate list by August 8 at the latest, once we confirm full compliance with constitutional requirements."

As the 90-day campaign period is in progress, observers anticipate an unprecedented electoral contest that could reshape Malawi's political trajectory for decades to come.