By Wadza Botomani
Speculation continues to grow over former President Arthur Peter Mutharika’s extended stay in South Africa, with social media awash with rumors that the 86-year-old Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader is hospitalized. Mutharika, the DPP’s presidential candidate for the September 16 elections, left Malawi over a week ago, but his prolonged absence has fueled unverified claims of a medical emergency .
The DPP has repeatedly dismissed the rumors, insisting Mutharika is in “excellent health” and attending to private business. Secretary General Peter Mukhito stated the former president traveled transparently via a scheduled Malawian Airlines flight, dismissing allegations of secrecy . However, the party’s failure to provide concrete details—such as his exact whereabouts or return date—has only intensified public skepticism .
Adding to the uncertainty, Mutharika has yet to collect his nomination papers from the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), a critical step for his candidacy. His absence at the recent Chilima Memorial event in Nsipe further fueled speculation about his condition .
Critics accuse the DPP of obfuscation, while government opponents allege a coordinated misinformation campaign through state media . With election tensions rising, Mutharika’s prolonged silence and unclear status risk undermining his party’s campaign momentum.
As rumors persist, Malawians await clarity—either through Mutharika’s public appearance or an official update from his party .
