By Suleman Chitera, Lilongwe, Malawi – July 25, 2025

As the clock ticks toward 9:00 a.m. this morning, all eyes are on the former President and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, who is expected to file his nomination papers at the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) headquarters at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.

The atmosphere is tense yet filled with anticipation, as Malawians across the country eagerly wait to find out who Mutharika has chosen as his running mate in the upcoming presidential elections slated for September 16, 2025.

According to citizens interviewed in different parts of the country, many are hoping that Mutharika picks a forward-thinking and visionary candidate—someone capable of driving national development and complementing his leadership should the DPP secure a return to power.

“We want someone who understands the current economic challenges and can work with Mutharika to improve people’s lives. It’s not just about popularity, it’s about capacity and direction,” said one Blantyre-based voter.

MEC on Wednesday officially opened the window for receiving nomination papers for presidential, parliamentary, and local government candidates. The exercise, which is expected to run through next week, marks a critical phase in the build-up to the tripartite elections.

In previous elections, Mutharika has been known for making bold and sometimes surprising choices when selecting his running mates—often opting for individuals with little political visibility at the time of appointment. This has left many wondering who he will settle on this time around.

Will it be a political heavyweight, a technocrat, or yet another newcomer to the political scene?

With the nation watching, the DPP’s nomination day could very well shape the momentum of the entire campaign season.

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