In Malawi, it seems becoming president is no longer about having a strong party, clear vision, or national support — it’s just about collecting a nomination paper and dreaming big. As of 23 June 2025, the Malawi Electoral Commission has confirmed that thirteen people have collected nomination forms to run for president in the upcoming election. But when you look at the list, it becomes clear that not everyone is serious — and not everyone belongs in the race.
Some names are familiar, like President Lazarus Chakwera of the ruling Malawi Congress Party. With a solid structure across the country, an aggressive campaign team, and the advantage of being in power, MCP remains the strongest and most organised party heading into the 2025 election. Others, like former president Peter Mutharika of the DPP, are trying to make a comeback, even though the party itself is showing signs of confusion and weakness. Dalitso Kabambe is also in the race, flying the UTM flag, but his party looks like it is falling apart, and many still question his past conduct at the Reserve Bank.
Then there’s a long list of dreamers — independents and leaders of small “briefcase” parties that have no offices, no followers, and no hope of winning even a local council seat. From pastors to unknowns, the list includes people like Reverend Hardwick Kaliya, Milward Tobias, Smart Swira, and others leading parties that sound more like WhatsApp groups than real political movements. One of the new parties is even called “Anyamata, Atsikana, Azimayi,” and no one really knows what they stand for — maybe just a name and ambition.
This shows a growing problem in Malawi’s politics: everybody wants to be president, even those who have never led anything or helped their community. Many people are chasing the spotlight, not because they want to serve, but because they think standing for president brings fame, power, or attention. It is becoming a national circus, where anyone with a form and a fantasy thinks they can sit in State House.
But the truth is, elections are not jokes. Malawi needs serious leaders with serious plans. Right now, only a few candidates show that level of seriousness. President Chakwera and the MCP are clearly ahead, not just because they are in government, but because they are running a real campaign with real organisation. The rest are mostly scattered, unprepared, or simply playing games.
With the official nomination period still open until 30 July 2025, more names may be added to the list. But unless something changes, most of these candidates will just fade away. Because no matter how many want to be president, only one will win — and not everyone is fit for the job.
