Malawi’s newest president, Lazarus Chakwera signals hope for the people of Malawi and for Christians across the African continent. He was sworn into office in late June 2020 and identifies himself as a “man of God.”

After Malawi’s much-disputed 2019 election—the results of which were annulled by the court system—Chakwera threw his hat in the ring and was embraced by the country’s large Christian population.

Chakwera’s leadership skills originated in the church. He led Malawi’s Assemblies of God for over 20 years, only leaving his role as pastor when he felt God’s firm call to politics.

“I had to argue with God over a direction in life that didn’t seem natural to me,” he admitted. “God was saying that: ‘I’m extending your ministry so that you’re able to pastor a whole nation.’”

It was a thrilling thought for Chakwera…