Bakili Muluzi

Muluzi won Malawi's first multi-party election since independence, defeating longtime dictator Hastings Kamuzu Banda. He became the first democratically elected president of Malawi, ending 30 years of one-party rule.

Muluzi won a second term in office, defeating Gwanda Chakuamba. The election was marred by allegations of irregularities, but Muluzi's United Democratic Front retained power.

Muluzi attempted to amend the Malawian constitution to allow a third presidential term. The effort failed due to opposition from civil society, parliament, and international pressure, forcing him to step down in 2004.

Muluzi was arrested and charged with corruption and theft of public funds amounting to $11 million during his presidency. The case dragged on for years, with Muluzi eventually acquitted in 2012 due to lack of evidence.