Former President Arthur Peter Mutharika has officially announced that he will present his presidential nomination papers on Friday, July 25, 2025, in Lilongwe, signaling his return to frontline politics ahead of the September 16 general elections.
In a statement shared on Facebook, Mutharika said his candidacy is driven by a “sacred call” to restore hope, dignity, and purposeful leadership in Malawi.
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“This is not just a political step, but a sacred call to restore hope, dignity, and purposeful leadership in Malawi,” he wrote. “Guided by faith, patriotism, and the trust you have placed in me over the years, I step forward once more—not for power, but for service.”
The 85-year-old DPP leader promised to rebuild a united and progressive Malawi, urging Malawians—especially undecided voters and those who believe in a brighter future—to rally behind his bid.
“The time for renewal is now. The time for action is here,” he said.
The announcement comes amid heightened political activity as presidential candidates begin submitting their nomination papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC). The submissions are taking place from July 24 to 30, 2025, at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja stressed that all presidential candidates must present their papers in person.
“No presidential candidate is allowed to send a representative. They must avail themselves during the submission,” she said.
As Mutharika steps into the spotlight on Friday, attention will also turn to his choice of running mate—a decision that could shape the Democratic Progressive Party’s prospects in the coming polls.
Recently, the main opposition party had announced that it had entered into a political alliance with Northern Region Block ahead of the September 16 General Elections