For News from the BBC:
Malawi leader to be inaugurated

For Malawian News:
The Nation
The Daily Times

In fact, the day of and day after the elections were the quietest I have ever seen in Malawi. In Dedza, people stayed home, chatting amongst family and neighbours about the possibilities. The following day, groups of people huddled around radios, sometimes mending this or that or cutting vegetables for the meal, listening intently as the results from the polling stations started to trickle in. Even the children were quiet. At the office, a sense of relief and pride of the calm orderly state of affairs reigned, along with celebration for those who had voted for the winning party.

I must admit, I’m impressed. 7 months ago, sitting in the EWB house in Canada, watching the Canadian elections and feeling un-empowered, I started thinking about these Malawian elections. (Elections 2008/2009) I wondered what it would be like. It has not been an easy process for any of the candidates. It was a tough race, a tight one, with many changes, forged alliances, power-plays and speeches. Not that different than Canada really. There is a saying now: “Malawi has matured in her democracy.” I hope that it stays this way, that the exchange of ideas and views between friends can continue and for a safe and prosperous next 5 years.