The Parliament of Malawi, established in 2019, has been officially dissolved in anticipation of the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for 16 September 2025. The dissolution, announced by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Catherine Gotani Hara, aligns with constitutional requirements that mandate the cessation of parliamentary functions prior to a general election.
In a formal communication delivered on Wednesday, Speaker Hara confirmed that all parliamentary activity—including legislative duties, representation, and oversight—has ceased as of the date of dissolution. She emphasised that this process is constitutionally mandated and applies during any electoral year in which general elections are held.
Although legislative operations have formally concluded, the Speaker noted a conditional clause in the Malawian Constitution that allows for the temporary reconvening of Parliament. According to the constitutional framework, should a national emergency or constitutional crisis arise before the elections, the President retains the authority to recall Parliament. Such a reconvening would be limited exclusively to addressing the emergent issue at hand.
The general elections in September will usher in a new leadership cohort, including a President, Members of Parliament, and Local Government Officials, all serving for the 2025–2030 term. According to the Malawi Electoral Commission, at least 20 presidential aspirants are expected to submit nomination papers between 24 and 30 July 2025.
Among the key contenders are:
- President Lazarus Chakwera, representing the Malawi Congress Party and seeking re-election.
- Former President Peter Mutharika, standing on the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) ticket.
- Former President Joyce Banda, contesting under the People’s Party.
- Dalitso Kabambe, the former Governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi, representing the United Transformation Movement (UTM).
The forthcoming election is anticipated to be closely contested, given the calibre of returning and new candidates. Political analysts have noted that this may be one of the most competitive presidential races since the return to multi-party democracy in 1994.
The process of dissolving Parliament prior to an election is a long-standing constitutional practice intended to create an equitable political environment during the campaign period. It prevents sitting legislators from using parliamentary privileges for electoral gain and reinforces Malawi’s commitment to democratic governance. The timing of the dissolution also ensures the Electoral Commission has the latitude to prepare for a credible and transparent electoral process.
As the electoral season progresses, stakeholders, including civil society, electoral observers, and regional bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), will likely monitor developments to ensure adherence to democratic norms and constitutional integrity.
The Southern African Times will continue to provide factual, impartial updates as the electoral landscape in Malawi evolves in the coming weeks.
