Malawi’s Chakwera looking for new partner after allied UTM exits

Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera has secured his party’s support for a second term in next year’s election.

However, his chances of retaining power hinge on the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) finding a strong alliance partner.

The MCP, previously in an electoral alliance with the United Transformation Movement (UTM), now lacks a formidable ally after the UTM withdrew from the partnership following the death of former Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima in a plane crash.

Chilima, leader of the UTM, played a crucial role in helping Chakwera secure an absolute majority in the 2020 election.

Malawi’s political system requires a presidential candidate to secure over 50% of the votes to win.

Chakwera expressed confidence in his party’s growing support since the last election.

The MCP, founded by the country’s first president, Hastings Kamuzu Banda, returned to power in 2020 after 26 years in opposition, promising to address corruption and boost the economy.

However, opposition parties argue that the MCP has not fulfilled its promises, leaving the economy fragile.

Chakwera faces a strong challenge from former President Peter Mutharika, who is expected to be endorsed by the main opposition Democratic Progress Party later this month.

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