The NGO-Gender Coordination Network (NGO-GCN) has expressed delight at the appointment of Jane Ansa as the country’s next Vice President, highlighting the milestone as a step forward for women's leadership.

Ansa becomes the second woman to hold the office of Vice President in the country’s history, following Joyce Banda, who served from 2009 to 2012 before assuming the presidency.

Maggie Kathewera Banda, chairperson of NGO-GCN and founder of the Women Manifesto Movement, said she hopes Ansa’s appointment will inspire more women to take leading roles in economic, political, and social spheres.

“We believe this is a powerful message to women across the country — that leadership is within their reach,” Kathewera Banda said. “We hope her appointment will encourage more women to step forward and lead, not only in politics but also in economic and social spheres.”

She further urged women elected in the upcoming polls to be bold advocates for gender equality and the rights of women and girls.

Meanwhile, the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) expressed optimism that the incoming administration will prioritize addressing the country’s deepening economic challenges.

“These economic hardships are not just numbers - they translate into daily struggles for food, healthcare, education, and basic dignity,” said CHRR Executive Director Michael Kaiyatsa. “We urge the new government to develop and implement a clear, inclusive plan to restore economic stability and improve people’s livelihoods.”

In a statement also extending well wishes to outgoing President Peter Mutharika, Kaiyatsa commended Dr. Lazarus Chakwera for accepting the election results, calling it a strong gesture of democratic maturity.

“By accepting the will of the people, Dr. Chakwera has demonstrated statesmanship and a commitment to democratic values,” Kaiyatsa said.

According to MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, out of 5,502,982 total votes cast, President Peter Mutharika received 3,035,290 votes - representing 56.8 percent — while Dr. Lazarus Chakwera of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) garnered 1,765,170 votes, amounting to 33.0 percent.