By Suleman Chitera

Former President Peter Mutharika made a dramatic return to the political stage yesterday with a speech that blended history, economics, and everyday realities into a rallying cry for his re-election bid.

Quoting America’s Declaration of Independence, Mutharika declared that any government’s true test lies in protecting life, safeguarding liberty, and enabling the pursuit of happiness. He accused the current administration of failing on all three fronts, citing worsening poverty and a collapsing economy.

“We cannot thrive in poverty. We cannot be free when hunger is our daily companion,” he told the cheering crowd, promising that his Economic Recovery Committee has a “clear and actionable roadmap” to stabilize the nation.

In a striking display of confidence, Mutharika spoke without notes, teleprompter, or paper—mixing humour, conviction, and clarity. For a leader often criticised for his age, he projected energy and authority, showing no sign of weakness on the podium.