By Burnett Munthali
People from various walks of life have gathered at Katoto Secondary School Ground in Mzuzu City, filling the open space with a buzz of anticipation.
The majority of attendees are members of the local business community, eager to witness the historic swearing-in and inauguration ceremony of President-elect Professor Peter Mutharika.
Vice President-elect Justice Dr. Jane Ansah SC was also formally sworn in during the event, adding to the excitement among the crowd.
Residents expressed joy at being able to participate in the celebrations, even from a distance, as the live broadcast of the ceremony played on large screens.
The ground was a sea of colorful party flags, banners, and attire, with supporters waving them high in the air to celebrate the country’s peaceful transition of power.
Music blared from speakers, blending traditional Malawian rhythms with contemporary songs, and the crowd responded with dancing, clapping, and singing along.
Chants of support for the new leadership echoed across the school grounds, as attendees voiced their hopes for economic revival, good governance, and national unity.
Local leaders and businesspeople mingled, discussing the potential policy reforms and opportunities that the DPP-led government might bring, particularly in trade, investment, and job creation.
Children waved small flags and cheered alongside their parents, adding a festive, family-oriented atmosphere to the public viewing.
Some attendees held aloft placards with messages of encouragement, urging the new administration to prioritize food security, health care, and infrastructure development.
The excitement reached a peak when excerpts of President Mutharika’s inaugural speech were broadcast, with citizens erupting in applause as he pledged to end corruption and restore integrity in public service.
Vice President Jane Ansah’s words of unity and national progress were met with similar cheers, particularly from women and youth in the crowd who see her appointment as a milestone for gender equality in leadership.
The event underscored the high level of civic engagement in northern Malawi, reflecting the public’s desire to actively witness and celebrate the democratic process.
As the sun set over Katoto Secondary School Ground, the energy of the crowd remained high, a vibrant reminder of the optimism, hope, and expectations Malawians carry for their country under its new leadership.
