Malavi: Afrika’da Barışçıl Demokrasi ve Siyasi Geçişin Örneği
Malawi: An Example of Peaceful Democracy and Political Transition in Africa

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this study is to analyse the continuity and fragility of the democratic political order in Malawi in its historical and institutional dimensions. In particular, the transition to a multi-party system after 1994, peaceful transfers of power, and the position of independent members of parliament within the political system have been examined. A qualitative research design was adopted as the methodology; a literature review, constitutional text analysis, and secondary data analysis based on international democracy indices were conducted. The fundamental assumption of the study is that, despite low-income levels and limited institutionalisation, electoral competition, judicial independence, and an active civil society enable democratic resilience. The findings show that political parties in Malawi have weak ideological foundations and are leader-centred; however, regular and competitive elections strengthen the legitimacy of the system. The annulment and re-run of the 2020 presidential elections by the Constitutional Court demonstrated that judicial oversight is a critical safeguard for the democratic system. Furthermore, the flexible position of independent MPs in parliament stands out as an important factor shaping coalition politics. Although ethnic diversity has influenced political mobilisation, it has not produced widespread and persistent internal conflict. Consequently, Malawi's democracy is institutionally fragile but resilient thanks to electoral and judicial mechanisms. It is anticipated that democratic capacity could be further strengthened if the objectives of governance reforms, economic diversification and human capital enhancement, in line with the Malawi 2063 (MW2063) vision, the country's longterm development strategy, are implemented. In this context, strengthening party institutionalisation, enhancing legislative oversight capacity, and deepening the rule of law are presented as key recommendations.

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