The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has released the final list of 17 candidates set to contest the 2025 presidential election.

The list includes incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera (Malawi Congress Party), former President Joyce Banda (People’s Party), Dalitso Kabambe (UTM), Arthur Peter Mutharika (Democratic Progressive Party), and Atupele Muluzi (United Democratic Front).

Also running are Michael Usi (Odya Zake Alibe Mlandu), Kondwani Nankhumwa (People’s Development Party), Kamuzu Chibambo (PETRA), Frank Mwenefumbo (National Development Party), Akwame Bandawe (AAA), Jordan Sauti (Patriotic Citizens Party), and several independents: Thokozani Banda, Adil Chilungo, Cosmas Chipojola, Smart Swira, Milward Tobias, and Phunziro Mvula.

Three candidates, David Dube, David Mbewe, and Rev. Hardwick Kaliya, were excluded from the list, with MEC giving no official reason.

According to MEC Chair Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, this confirms the final lineup Malawians will choose from on the ballot.

The key race is shaping up between President Chakwera and former President Mutharika. For many, the election is either a referendum on Chakwera’s leadership, particularly on the economy and youth empowerment, or a potential comeback for Mutharika, whose past record remains under scrutiny.