Malawians are heading to the polls for presidential and parliamentary elections amid widespread discontent over a worsening economic crisis and soaring cost of living. The election features a rematch between incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera and former president Peter Mutharika, who have faced each other in three previous contests, with the 2019 election results having been annulled due to irregularities.

• Over 17 candidates are vying for the presidency, with Chakwera and Mutharika as the leading contenders.
• The country has experienced significant economic hardship, including an inflation rate of around 27%, fuel shortages, and power outages.
• A presidential run-off will occur if no candidate secures more than 50% of the votes, and the electoral commission expects to announce results by September 24 for presidential and September 30 for parliamentary elections.