Malawi’s newly re-elected president, Peter Mutharika, has taken the oath of office for a second term, pledging to tackle deep-rooted government corruption and rescue the nation’s struggling economy.

The 85-year-old leader secured a decisive victory in the September 16 election, winning over 56% of the vote and defeating outgoing President Lazarus Chakwera, 70, who garnered just 33%. This election marked the fourth contest between the two political rivals.

Speaking during a packed inauguration ceremony at a stadium in Blantyre, Mutharika painted a stark picture of Malawi’s current state—crippling debt, food shortages, rising living costs, and persistent fuel and forex crises.

“There is no money in government. Borrowing is extremely high, and nobody knows where the borrowed money has gone,” he said.

Despite the grim outlook, Mutharika struck a tone of determination: “We will fix this country. I don’t promise you milk and honey. I promise you hard work, tough and painful decisions. The honeymoon of looting government is over!”

He also extended a hand to the international community, directly addressing U.S. President Donald Trump and announcing plans to send a delegation to the United States to discuss investment opportunities.

With Malawi among the world’s poorest countries, all eyes are now on Mutharika’s administration as citizens hope for real change beyond political promises.