‘Wantam’ wave sweeps Malawi as incumbent Chakwera concedes to Mutharika

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The ‘Wantam’--One Term--spirit that has gained currency among young African voters claimed another seat of power on Wednesday, as Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera conceded defeat to opposition leader and former President Arthur Peter Mutharika.

Mr Chakwera, acknowledging the Malawi Electoral Commission’s validated results, said Mr Mutharika of the Democratic Progressive Party had secured a decisive lead.

He confirmed personally calling him to concede and pledged to oversee a peaceful transition.

“This outcome reflects the collective will of Malawians, and I concede defeat out of respect for the Constitution,” he said.

Analysts say the election fits into a continental pattern where voters — especially the youth — are rejecting leaders who seek to cling to power.

From Cameroon’s Paul Biya to Congo’s Denis Sassou Nguesso, ageing incumbents are increasingly facing resistance from electorates that insist on renewal.

“This generation does not entertain overstaying leaders. The message is clear: Wantam,” a Lilongwe-based political observer said.

Mr Chakwera, who rose to power in 2020, said his team had been instructed to support the incoming administration.

“I am fully committed to facilitating a peaceful transfer of power,” he declared.

Mr Mutharika, a former law professor, is no stranger to the presidency.

He previously served as Malawi’s fifth head of state between 2014 and 2020, following the death of his elder brother, Bingu wa Mutharika, who had been president until 2012.