Blantyre, October 4, Mana: Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has officially been sworn in as Malawi’s seventh President, with Justice Dr. Jane Ansah taking the oath as Vice President during a historic ceremony at Kamuzu Stadium.

The inauguration marks a peaceful transition of power following the September 16, 2025, elections, in which Mutharika won 56.8 percent of the vote, defeating incumbent President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, who secured 33 percent, with voter turnout at 76.4 percent.

In his inaugural address, Mutharika pledged to serve every Malawian fairly, stressing unity, accountability, and inclusive governance.
“We must all work together to build a prosperous Malawi. This nation belongs to all of us, not one party or one group. Our destiny depends on shared responsibility and cooperation,” he said.

He warned against corruption, promising immediate dismissal for anyone found misusing public resources.

“Government is about service, not privilege. Any individual found misusing public funds will be expelled from office immediately. I will not tolerate corruption or abuse of resources meant for citizens,” Mutharika declared.

The President also called on citizens and international partners to invest in Malawi.

“We are not asking for handouts. Just come and invest in Malawi, and I will work with you to improve the lives of our citizens and guarantee sustainable growth and development,” he added.

Former Presidents Dr. Bakili Muluzi and Dr. Joyce Banda congratulated Mutharika and urged national support.

“We must now unite behind President Mutharika and give him the space and support to govern,” Muluzi said.

“I wish President Mutharika and Vice President Ansah wisdom and strength as they lead our nation. Let us all put aside our differences and work together to rebuild Malawi,” Banda added.

Political figures Smart Swila and Ras Chikomeni Chirwa praised the peaceful transition.

“We are looking to this government to address challenges such as unemployment, inflation, and inadequate public services,” Swila said.

“I am confident he will tackle Malawi’s challenges, including fuel scarcity, food insecurity, and unemployment,” Chirwa added.

Experts emphasized governance and evidence-based policymaking. Dr. Eliya Zulu, Executive Director of AFIDEP, said: “President Mutharika has an opportunity to redefine
governance by grounding decisions in credible research and data, which is critical to addressing structural challenges in health, education, and economic planning.”
Dr. George Chaima, political analyst, urged practical leadership and decisive action.

“The MCP under Dr. Chakwera was voted out because it was too theoretical. President Mutharika must act decisively, control corruption, ensure food and forex availability, curb rising prices, and eliminate nepotism,” he said.

Political commentator Mabvuto Bamusi highlighted economic priorities.

“The will of the people must be honoured by stabilizing the economy and controlling prices. Corruption must be tackled decisively, appointments should be based on merit, and fiscal discipline must be observed,” he said.

The inauguration, closed with prayers and hymns, symbolized national unity and a fresh opportunity for accountability, economic recovery, and inclusive leadership.

(By Jeremiah Mphande-MANA)