Chakwera concedes defeat, bids farewell
Planned announcement of presidential election results for the September 16 General Election yesterday slowed down activity when businesses closed early as a precautionary measure.
Ma l aw i E l e c t o r a l Commission initially scheduled the announcement for 2pm. However, the electoral body later shifted the announcement to 7pm.
The Nation spot-checks in Blantyre, Lilongwe and Mzuzu cities and other districts showed that by midday, most business premises were deserted.
In Blantyre, the Chichiri Shopping Centre was virtually closed, save for a couple of Chinese shops. However, security personnel advised the owners to close early.
Bankers Association of Malawi (BAM) announced that all banks would close at noon to facilitate enhanced security ahead of the release of the results.
In a statement, BAM said the precautionary step was taken in consultation with relevant authorities to ensure the safety of staff, customers, and banking infrastructure.
BAM chief executive officer Lyness Nkungula said in an interview that they would monitor the situation.
“But this is a precautionary measure for today [yesterday],” she said.
Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry chief executive officer Daisy Kambalame said prioritising security for businesses and staff is paramount where there may be potential for risk.
She said: “Whilst operations for businesses might be affected, we trust that this would not be prolonged.
“We are also comforted by the availability of online transactions which we hope will cater for any business needs during the period.”
Kambalame also urged businesses to remain vigilant to ensure safety of staff and property, adding that considering the potential cost any damage to life or property might have, businesses understood BAM’s decision.
On his part, Consumers Association of Malawi executive director John Kapito said while closure of banks affected part of financial services delivery, it is important to put measures to protect businesses.
“Considering the tension, one would expect to see a lot of chaos and confusion amongst the very same consumers. Let us take caution that this is a very difficult time demanding the protection of life and property,” he said.
In a security advisory dated September 23 2025, G4S Secure Logistics said the day was expected to be tense, with high potential for victory parades and demonstrations that could lead to significant traffic and business disruptions.
The security agency advised Malawians to prepare for potential disruptions by storing food, water, fuel and medical supplies and avoid routes leading to major political party offices.
