Malawi's recent elections are shaping up to be a historic rematch between incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera and his predecessor, Peter Mutharika. Provisional results from a quarter of the country's councils show Mutharika with an early lead, having secured roughly 51% of the valid votes compared to Chakwera's nearly 39%. This early indication of a major shift in power comes as the country grapples with a severe economic crisis. During President Chakwera's term, inflation has soared from approximately 8% to 27%, leading to critical shortages of fuel and sugar and making staple foods like corn unaffordable for many. His government has also faced criticism over its handling of corruption cases, a key issue he pledged to address upon taking office. Mutharika, who governed from 2014 to 2020, is credited with improving infrastructure and lowering inflation but was also accused of nepotism. The election has already faced controversy, with Chakwera's party alleging rigging and prompting the arrest of eight data entry staff.