In this week’s edition of the African Mirror, former Malawian president Peter Mutharika has made a political comeback, securing victory in the country’s elections with 56.8 percent of the vote. His opponent, incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera, trailed with 33 percent. At 85 years old, Mutharika previously led Malawi from 2014 until 2020. According to electoral law, his swearing-in ceremony must be held within 30 days.
Speaking to VOC News, Dr Paul Kariuki, Executive Director of the Democracy Development Programme at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and Convener at the Africa Policy Circle (APC), reflected on the result.
“It’s very interesting when it comes to voters’ choices of their leaders, and it’s not so far-fetched from what is already happening on the continent,” he said.”As you may recall, a couple of sitting presidents and those who wish to serve another term are already in the same age group. As a result, it’s becoming somewhat common. We’re seeing much older presidential candidates join the race, and those who are already there are resisting every temptation to cede power.”
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
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