Ex-Soldier ‘Phunziro Mvula’ Admits Presidential Loss, Vows to Come Back Strong in 2030

Independent presidential candidate Phunziro Mvula has publicly conceded defeat in Malawi’s fiercely contested election, acknowledging that early results indicate he has no realistic chance of winning.

Speaking to Mzati Online on Thursday morning, Mvula, a retired soldier, described the vote tallying process as a learning experience that revealed areas he plans to strengthen for the 2030 elections.

“I have learned a lot from this election, and it has exposed areas where I need to improve. I will come back stronger in 2030,” Mvula said.

At the same time, he issued a stern warning, emphasizing that he will not tolerate “misguided individuals” attempting to disrupt the electoral process or incite post-election violence.

Under Malawi law, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) is expected to release official presidential results within eight days of voting.

This is not Mvula’s first experience with electoral controversy. In 2020, he withdrew his candidacy, citing concerns over the Commission’s ability to manage a rerun election. At the time, he endorsed Malawi Congress Party (MCP) candidate Lazarus Chakwera, criticizing the electoral body led by Jane Ansa as incompetent and untrustworthy.