Political experts believe there is still potential for electoral alliances to emerge ahead of September 16 elections, even though several candidates have already collected presidential nomination papers indicating they will go alone in the poll.

This far, eight presidential aspirants have picked-up their nomination forms, according to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC). 

But analysts point out that not all individuals who have fetched nomination papers are expected to contest, pointing out that certain candidates may be collecting nomination papers strategically—not necessarily to run, but to position themselves for potential coalition negotiations. 

Political pundit, Chimwemwe Tsitsi, noted that it was unlikely that all those who have obtained nomination papers will eventually appear on the final ballot.

“If they are still engaging with other potential candidates in a possible electoral alliance, what they are trying to do is perhaps to show them that much as we are into these alliance talks as an individual they are particularly interested in contesting for the presidency.” Said Tsitsi.

Another political commentator, George Chaima, underscored the unpredictable nature of the current political landscape, adding that securing nomination papers is a way for aspirants to safeguard their political options.

Said Chaima, “it is crucial that any political leader must make sure that he or she books a space for him or herself to make sure that incase of some changes they must not be a lose out but rather a buy in”

Those who have collected nominations are independent candidates Milliward Tobias, Adil James Chilungo, and Reverend Hardwick Kaliya. Party-affiliated aspirants include Lazarus Chakwera of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Kondwani Nankhumwa of the People’s Development Party (PDP), Akwame Bandawe of Atsikana, Anyamata, Azima (AAA), Joyce Banda of the People’s Party (PP) and Atupele Muluzi of the United Democratic Front (UDF).

Former President Peter Mutharika, representing the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has yet to collect his nomination papers despite having already paid the required fees.

Candidates have until July 5th, 2025 submit their nomination papers.