Malawians' Perception of the Current Administration

By Michael Martin//Malawi

A recent Afrobarometer survey has shed light on Malawians’ views on the current administration led by President Lazarus Chakwera.

The survey, released on December 6, 2024, reveals that 43% of respondents believe they will vote for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in the upcoming elections.

The survey also assessed the public’s perception of the current administration’s performance.

“43% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy, a significant proportion of Malawians (29%) believe the government is doing well in providing essential services such as water, electricity, and education.

The Afrobarometer survey also gauged party preferences ahead of the elections.

It finds that 43% of respondents prefer the DPP, 29% prefer the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), 7% prefer the United Transformation Movement (UTM), 2% prefer the United Democratic Front (UDF) and 14% of respondents are undecided.

Speaking to the media at pariament building in Lilongwe, MCP’s secretary general, Richard Chimwendo Banda, expressed confidence that the MCP will win the upcoming elections.

“Whether you like it or not, MCP will not lose the elections,” he stated.

Banda also pointed out that the DPP’s popularity has been declining, and the party will not regain power.

The Afrobarometer survey provides valuable insights into the perceptions and preferences of Malawian citizens ahead of the elections. As the country prepares for the polls, it remains to be seen how these preferences will translate into votes.