27 May 2019 | 06:27 PM UTC
Malawi: Election officials confirm re-election of incumbent president May 27 /update 2
Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) confirms re-election of incumbent President Peter Mutharika May 27; protests likely in the wake of announcement
Event
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) announced on Monday, May 27, that incumbent President Peter Mutharika was narrowly re-elected during the May 21 election. Election officials reported that President Mutharika of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) secured a narrow victory by some 159,000 votes over Lazarus Chakwera of the opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
Election-related protests are possible across Malawi in the wake of the announcement. A heightened security presence and localized disruptions are to be anticipated around any demonstration sites over the coming hours and days.
Context
General elections were held peacefully throughout Malawi on May 21. According to the results released on May 27, incumbent President Peter Mutharika from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), secured 38.5 percent of the votes, against his rival from the MCP, Lazarus Chakwera, who obtained 35.4 percent of the vote.
Election-related demonstrations took place in the capital Lilongwe, as well as in other urban centers, notably in Dowa, Mchinji, Chikwawa and, Chitipa on May 26, after the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) announced the release presidential election results would be delayed further. The high court issued an injunction blocking the publication of the results amid allegations of election fraud.
Advice
Individuals in Malawi are advised to monitor the situation, avoid public demonstrations, anticipate a heightened security presence, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
