Political History of Malawi

For the history buffs out there...

The British arrive in the region in 1858 because of the slave trade.

Independence from the British- Nyasaland becomes independent on July 6th 1964, taking the name Malawi. Banda retains his post as prime minister.

From the start of what turns out to be a 30-year rule in Malawi, Banda follows policies which are at odds with other African leaders in the newly independent nations. He maintains cordial relations with the repressive white-supremacist regimes of the southern continent, South Africa. Within months of independence several members of his cabinet resign - partly on this issue, and partly in protest at the autocratic style of government which Banda adopts from the start. Little will change over the years in either respect.

In 1965 two of his ex-ministers lead a rebellion against him. It fails, and the following year Banda transforms Malawi into a republic with himself as president - a post which in 1971 he claims for life. He runs the country as a one-party state, with ferocious persecution of anyone showing signs of disagreement with his policies.

An exceptionally low turn-out for elections in 1992 coincides with pressure from international loan agencies for the introduction of multiparty democracy. The eventual result, after strong opposition from Banda and his MCP, is new elections in 1994.

In spite of reported violence and intimidation by the MCP, the main opposition presidential candidate, Bakili Muluzi, is elected. His party, the United Democratic Front, also has the largest number of seats in parliament.

In 1995 Banda is arrested and is charged with the murder, ten years previously, of three former cabinet colleagues. He is acquitted and dies in retirement, in 1997, at the age of ninety-five.

In the second half of the 1990s President Muluzi makes considerable progress in improving Malawi's economy, particularly in terms of controlling inflation. This brings a much needed increase in foreign investment and aid.