Malawi's former President Peter Mutharika has been declared the winner of last week's elections, in a huge comeback for the 85-year-old.
Official results show that he won 57% of the vote, compared to the 33% of President Lazarus Chakwera, 70.
Chakwera, a pastor before entering politics, conceded defeat ahead of the final result being declared, phoning Mutharika to congratulate him on his historic win.
Mutharika, a former professor of law, served as president from 2014 to 2020, when he lost to Chakwera by a wide margin.
He inherits an economy that is in deep crisis, with a severe shortage of fuel and foreign currency in the poor southern African state.
The official inflation rate is close to 30%, with a frozen chicken in a supermarket in the capital, Lilongwe, costing about $20 (£15), in a nation where most people live on $2 a day or less.
The election commission announced the result after taking the full eight days allowed to ensure accuracy and address complaints.
The election was pivotal, as Mutharika's previous victory in 2019 was annulled due to irregularities.
Chakwera's concession speech recognized the election's outcome, sparking celebrations among Mutharika's supporters. The political landscape in Malawi is challenged by high living costs, corruption, and economic instability, pushing voters toward Mutharika's promise of proven leadership. However, there are concerns regarding Mutharika's health and ability to lead at 85.
This election cycle marks the fourth duel between Mutharika and Chakwera, highlighting a fluctuating political scene in Malawi filled with hopes and challenges for its citizens.
