President Lazarus Chakwera Casts His Vote in Malembo as Malawi Decides Its Future
Malembo, Malawi – September 15, 2025 — Malawians are casting their votes nationwide today in a high-stakes general election that could determine the political future of President Lazarus Chakwera. The President voted this morning in his home village of Malembo, drawing attention as the nation watches closely to see if he will secure a second term in office.
Our correspondent Hillary Panashe was on the ground at the polling center, where he captured exclusive photos and videos of President Chakwera as he arrived to vote. The President was seen greeting villagers and election officials before casting his ballot.
“This election is about continuing the progress we have made in building institutions and restoring trust,” Chakwera told reporters after voting.
A Decisive Moment for Malawi
Today’s tripartite election the first since the landmark 2019 annulment sees Malawians choosing their president, 229 members of parliament, and 509 local councillors. It is the largest and most complex vote since the return of multiparty democracy in 1994.
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has confirmed that voting materials were delivered on time across the country’s more than 5,000 polling centers, and early turnout reports suggest high engagement, particularly in rural areas.
Chakwera’s main challengers include opposition leaders who have capitalized on economic discontent and accusations of slow progress in anti-corruption efforts. The outcome of today’s vote is expected to reshape Malawi’s political landscape for the next five years.
On-the-Ground Coverage
Our correspondent Hillary Panashe, who was up early with voters, reports that security was tight but calm in Malembo during the President’s arrival. Local supporters gathered to catch a glimpse of Chakwera, some chanting slogans of support, while others expressed concerns about the country’s economic trajectory.
“We’re voting for a better future, whether with him or someone else,” one voter in Malembo told Panashe.
Photos and videos from the President’s voting moment, captured exclusively by Hillary Panashe, are now available in our gallery below.
🎥 [Watch the video of President Chakwera voting in Malembo]
What’s Next
According to the law, election results must be announced within eight days. A recent High Court ruling mandates that only official results from polling centers be used, in a bid to ensure transparency and prevent manipulation.
As the polls remain open across the country, all eyes are now on voter turnout and whether Malawians will choose continuity or change.
