Seeking votes, Malawi president vows to transform country

Malawian President Peter Mutharika made a final plea to voters on Saturday, promising to develop the country "beyond recognition" if he wins next week's election.

Mutharika, who came to power in 2014, could face a tough battle to hold onto office in Tuesday's election, after his presidency was damaged by corruption allegations.

"We have set Malawi on the path of progress. The opposition have nothing to criticise me on," he told several thousand cheering supporters in Blantyre at his final campaign rally.

"My priorities for this country are development and building skills. When you give me a chance for another five years, I will develop this country beyond recognition.

"I can assure you that we will get to the level of Singapore and Malaysia."
Mutharika, 78, who has denied rumours of ill health, was greeted by supporters chanting "We all knew our father was alive!"
"Nothing less than victory -- we are winning, nobody is going to mess with this vote."
The party has targeted the massive youth vote and Chilima, 46, told his final rally: "Most of our economic sector is in the hands of a few -- this is what led to the birth of the UTM. On Tuesday we are beginning a new journey to become a free nation."