By Burnett Munthali
Kamuzu Stadium in Blantyre is buzzing with excitement this morning as thousands of Malawians, foreign dignitaries, and political leaders gather for the swearing-in and inauguration of President-elect Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika as the country’s seventh President, alongside Vice President-elect Justice Dr. Jane Ansah.
The ceremony will see Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda administer the oath of office, followed by the official inauguration. Security around Blantyre has been tightened, with the Malawi Defence Force expected to conduct a 21-gun salute and a presidential parade in honour of the new Head of State.
Supporters of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) have turned the stadium into a sea of blue, singing and chanting in celebration of their leader’s return. Musician Giboh Pearson set the tone with his hit song Idzathera Ma Penalty, followed by Black Nina, further electrifying the atmosphere.
Adding to the vibrant scene, various traditional dance troupes, including the Ingoma dancers from the Maseko Ngoni of Ntcheu and the Soopa group from Phalombe, entertained the crowd with energetic performances.
Malawi’s recent election marked a major political comeback for Mutharika, who defeated incumbent Lazarus Chakwera in the September 16 polls.
The Malawi Electoral Commission announced that Mutharika secured 56.8 percent of the vote against Chakwera’s 33 percent.
Former Presidents Dr. Joyce Banda and Dr. Bakili Muluzi are among the dignitaries in attendance, alongside visiting heads of state from Zimbabwe and Mozambique, and the Prime Minister of Tanzania.
Held under the theme “The Great Return to Proven Leadership,” the inauguration is being hailed as a symbol of Malawi’s democratic maturity and resilience.
Observers expect President Mutharika’s inaugural address to focus on restoring economic stability, improving governance, and rebuilding public trust.
The mood at Kamuzu Stadium remains jubilant as the nation awaits the moment Mutharika and Ansah officially take their oaths of office.
