Polls open in Malawi presidential election, in nation hit by soaring costs

"Analysts say the race is between President Lazarus Chakwera, 70, and his predecessor, law professor Peter Mutharika, 85, both of whom have campaigned on improving the agriculture-dependent economy battered by a series of climate shocks, with inflation topping 27 percent. Tuesday's elections mark Malawi's first national elections since the 2019 presidential vote was nullified and ordered to be redone in 2020 because of widespread irregularities."

"However, both of the men have been accused of cronyism, corruption and economic mismanagement during their first presidential terms, leaving voters a choice between two disappointments, political commentator Chris Nhlane told the AFP news agency. Though both drew large crowds to colourful final rallies at the weekend, many younger Malawians were reportedly uninspired. With about 60 percent of the 7.2 million registered voters aged less than 35, activists have been mobilising to overcome apathy and get young voters to the polls."

More than a dozen candidates appear on the ballot, but the contest centers on President Lazarus Chakwera and former president Peter Mutharika. Polling opened early with 17 names and a run-off widely expected. Both Chakwera, 70, and Mutharika, 85, campaigned on reviving an agriculture-dependent economy hit by climate shocks, droughts and a 2023 cyclone. Inflation has topped 27 percent and cost of living surged about 75 percent in 12 months. Both men face accusations of cronyism, corruption and economic mismanagement from prior terms. About 60 percent of 7.2 million registered voters are under 35, prompting youth mobilisation amid reported apathy.

Read at www.aljazeera.com