Independent presidential aspirant Ras David Chikomeni Chirwa will not appear on the 2025 presidential ballot after failing yet again to meet the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC)’s nomination requirements, despite spirited fundraising efforts.
This marks the third consecutive election cycle in which Chirwa has been disqualified. In both the 2019 annulled elections and the 2020 court-ordered rerun, he failed to meet requirements, including the full deposit fee and district-level nomination signatures.
In a bid to raise the K10 million nomination fee, Chirwa earlier this year organised big walks in Lilongwe and Mzuzu, but says he ultimately raised only K5 million, falling short by half.
“I have done my best, but I have only managed to half of the required amount,” Chirwa told local media.
Following his disqualification, Chirwa has endorsed Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Arthur Peter Mutharika, describing him as the only leader with a proven track record and inclusive vision.
“It is in line with this reality and my convictions that I endorse Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika and the DPP as the only leadership with a proven track record and the will of the people including us Rastafarians,” he said.
As of today, 14 presidential hopefuls have collected nomination papers for the September 16, 2025 polls.
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