About
Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera is a Malawian politician, theologian, and pastor who served as the sixth president of Malawi from 2020 to 2025. He is a member of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and has been the party's president since 2013. Before entering politics, Chakwera was a prominent religious leader, serving as President of the Malawian Assemblies of God from 1989 to 2013. During his presidency, he also concurrently served as Minister of Defense from 2020 to 2023, taking on responsibilities related to national security.
Career Timeline
President of Malawi Congress Party
Became president of the MCP, marking his formal entry into politics.
Loses Presidential Election
Lost the presidential election, remaining a prominent opposition figure.
Elected President of Malawi
Won the presidential election, assuming the highest office in Malawi.
Minister of Defence
Concurrently served as Minister of Defence, overseeing national security.
Leaves Office
Steps down from presidency, returning to being an opposition figure.
Influence as Former President
Leveraging his position as former president to impact politics in Malawi.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026