Mnangagwa to attend Mutharika's inauguration

President Emmerson Mnangagwa will today join other African and international leaders at the inauguration of Malawi President-elect Peter Mutharika.

The ceremony will take place at Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre, officially marking Mutharika as Malawi's seventh Head of State following his victory in the September 16 general elections. He secured 56.8 percent of the vote, defeating outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera. His running mate, Jane Ansah, will be sworn in as Vice President.

The Malawian government has extended invitations to regional and international dignitaries, including leaders from African Union member states. Botswana's President Duma Boko, Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, and Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema are also expected to attend.

Zimbabwean Ambassador to Malawi, Mrs Nancy Saungweme, reported that the pre-inauguration environment has been peaceful.

"The mood is okay and very peaceful," she said.

Thousands are expected to witness the swearing-in ceremony in Blantyre, while the Malawian government has also set up public viewing points at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe, Katoto Freedom Park in Mzuzu, and Mangochi Stadium to ensure nationwide participation.

Outgoing President Chakwera will formally hand over power, accompanied by outgoing Vice President Michael Usi and former Presidents Bakili Muluzi and Joyce Banda.

President-elect Mutharika previously served as Malawi's President from 2014 to 2020. His return to office marks a political comeback after losing to Chakwera in the 2020 elections.

The inauguration will feature the swearing-in of the President and Vice President by Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda, the presentation of symbols of office, military honours, cultural performances, and the inaugural address, signalling a new chapter in Malawi's democratic journey.