People who had hoped to see former President Joyce Banda back on the ballot in 2030 may need to rethink their expectations, after she signalled she is stepping away from electoral politics.
The former Head of State says she will not contest the 2030 General Election, saying she has already served her part and believes leadership should now shift to younger Malawians.
Speaking to the local media, Banda said her decision is firm, unless something changes in the future, and insisted she will continue serving in a different capacity.
“Do I have to be in State House to serve this nation?” she asked. “I will continue serving Malawi in an advisory role
Banda said she is satisfied with her contribution to national development, insisting her record speaks for itself.
“I have done my part. I have served my nation. Anyone with eyes can see what I did for this country, and anyone with a sense of justice can appreciate my contribution,” she said.
The former president said her focus has now shifted to international assignments, where she has been involved in governance, peacebuilding and development work since September 2025.
She currently chairs the SADC Panel of Elders, where she is engaged in mediation efforts in Madagascar.
Banda also leads the Global Fairness Initiative, an international organisation promoting inclusive economic development.
Her political journey began in 1999 when she joined the United Democratic Front. She later served as Member of Parliament for Zomba-Malosa and rose through key government positions before becoming Malawi’s fourth President and the country’s first female Head of State from April 2012 to May 2014.
The former Head of State says she will not contest the 2030 General Election, saying she has already served her part and believes leadership should now shift to younger Malawians.
Speaking to the local media, Banda said her decision is firm, unless something changes in the future, and insisted she will continue serving in a different capacity.
“Do I have to be in State House to serve this nation?” she asked. “I will continue serving Malawi in an advisory role
Banda said she is satisfied with her contribution to national development, insisting her record speaks for itself.
“I have done my part. I have served my nation. Anyone with eyes can see what I did for this country, and anyone with a sense of justice can appreciate my contribution,” she said.
The former president said her focus has now shifted to international assignments, where she has been involved in governance, peacebuilding and development work since September 2025.
She currently chairs the SADC Panel of Elders, where she is engaged in mediation efforts in Madagascar.
Banda also leads the Global Fairness Initiative, an international organisation promoting inclusive economic development.
Her political journey began in 1999 when she joined the United Democratic Front. She later served as Member of Parliament for Zomba-Malosa and rose through key government positions before becoming Malawi’s fourth President and the country’s first female Head of State from April 2012 to May 2014.
