Malawi's ex-president Mutharika takes early lead in election

Mutharika received roughly 51% of the valid votes cast in nine of the country's 36 councils, compared with nearly 39% for Chakwera, according to Reuters calculations based on results released by the c.....

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Malawi's former president Peter Mutharika has taken an early lead in this week's presidential election, securing approximately 51% of votes in a quarter of councils. He faces incumbent Lazarus Chakwera in a closely watched contest.

Mutharika garnered roughly 51% of valid votes in 9 of 36 councils, while Chakwera received nearly 39%.
The election is a repeat face-off between Peter Mutharika, of the Democratic Progressive Party, and Lazarus Chakwera, with the final results due by September 24.
A candidate needs over 50% for an outright win; otherwise, a second round will be held. The constitutional court annulled Mutharika's 2019 victory due to irregularities.