President Ramaphosa congratulates Professor Mutharika on his victory in Malawi elections
President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended warm congratulations to Professor Peter Mutharika following his victory in Malawi’s general elections held on 16 September 2025.
In a message issued on behalf of the government and people of South Africa, Ramaphosa wished Mutharika “every success” as he prepared to take on the responsibilities conferred upon him by Malawian voters.
“South Africa looks forward to continuing its close collaboration with Professor Mutharika’s administration, working in concert to strengthen the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between our two nations. This partnership is essential for the mutual benefit of our peoples and for the advancement of regional integration,” Ramaphosa said.
The president also commended Malawians for their peaceful participation in the polls, describing it as a reaffirmation of their commitment to democracy and “a positive example for the region.”
In his statement, Ramaphosa expressed appreciation for outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera’s role in strengthening bilateral ties during his term of office. He hailed Chakwera as a committed advocate for regional unity, noting his contributions to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), particularly during Malawi’s chairmanship of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
“His contributions were instrumental in promoting peace, development, and prosperity across the continent,” Ramaphosa said.
The Presidency said South Africa is looking forward to working with Mutharika’s incoming government to advance shared aspirations for the wellbeing of citizens and the broader African family.
On Wednesday, AFP reported that Chakwera conceded defeat in last week’s election, saying in an address to the nation that it was clear his rival and predecessor, Mutharika, had an “insurmountable lead”.
The dire state of the economy in the small southern African country of 21 million people dominated the September 16 vote, with critics accusing Chakwera of mismanagement and indecisiveness during his first term.
“A moment ago, I called Professor Mutharika directly to congratulate him on his historic victory and to wish him well,” Chakwera said just hours before the election authority was due to announce the final results of the vote.
Even ahead of the announcement, “it was clear that my main rival Peter Mutharika had already secured an insurmountable lead over me,” said Chakwera, 70, from the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
The former pastor came to power in a strong win at the 2020 polls against Mutharika, an 85-year-old constitutional law expert from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL News