President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated former Malawian President Peter Mutharika on his election victory in Malawi’s general elections, expressing his profound appreciation to outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera for his dedicated leadership.

Official results showed that Mutharika won 57% of the vote, compared to the 33% of Chakwera.

Mutharika previously served as President from May 2014 to June 2020.

Ramaphosa wished Mutharika every success as he prepares to undertake the weighty responsibility conferred upon him by the people of Malawi.

He said South Africa looked forward to continuing its close collaboration with Mutharika’s administration, working in concert to strengthen the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between the two nations.

“This partnership is essential for the mutual benefit of our peoples and for the advancement of regional integration,” he explained.

He highlighted that South Africa eagerly anticipates working with the incoming government and the people of Malawi to advance its shared aspirations for the wellbeing of the country’s citizens and the broader African family.

Ramaphosa further commended the people of Malawi for their active and peaceful participation in the electoral process, which he said reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to democratic principles, thereby setting a positive example for the region.

Meanwhile, Ramaphosa pointed out that during his tenure, Chakwera meaningfully strengthened bilateral cooperation between the two countries and was a committed advocate for regional unity.

“His contributions to the Southern African Development Community, notably during Malawi’s chairmanship of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, were instrumental in promoting peace, development, and prosperity across the continent,” he said.