Malawi's former President Peter Mutharika has won elections by a landslide, in a major comeback for the 85-year-old
He defeated President Lazarus Chakwera, getting 57% of the votes compared to his rival's 33%
Chakwera earlier phoned to congratulate him
Voters seem to have dismissed concerns about Mutharika's age and apparent lack of fitness
He ran a short campaign, telling people: "You missed me, right?"
Mutharika's supporters have burst into song and dance across the country to celebrate his victory
Chakwera's presidency was marred by soaring inflation, fuel shortages and constant power cuts
In his speech, Chakwera recognised the provisional votes, which showed his rival Peter Mutharika had taken a strong lead.
“I know that for the majority of you who voted, this outcome is a reflection of your collective will to have a change of government and so it is only right for you to concede defeat out of respect for your will as citizens," he told Malawians.
Chakwera and Mutharika squared off against each other at the polls for the fourth time - though the third time ended up not counting.
Mutharika first defeated Chakwera in 2014, but when he was declared winner over Chakwera in the next election in 2019, the result was annulled. Chakwera won the re-run the following year.
Now, he has conceded victory to Mutharika ahead of the final result being declared.
President Chakwera has just conceded defeat, telling the nation he is doing so out of respect for their desire for a change of government.
Image source, Getty ImagesChakwera's time in office has been marred by economic turmoil
Malawi's President Lazarus Chakwera is addressing the nation ahead of general election results being announced this afternoon.
Provisional results show his rival, former President Peter Mutharika has taken a comfortable lead, receiving around 66% of votes counted as of Tuesday.
In contrast, Chakwera had secured 24%.