In 2004, Malawi celebrates ten years of democracy with its third general elections held on the 20th of May. The elections, however, raise the question in how far the democratization process has reached this Southern African nation of 11 million people. While Dr. Bingu wa Mutharika from the ruling alliance is sworn into office, Malawians are on the streets protesting against the outcome of the elections, a rare event in one of the most peaceful countries on the continent. At least six people, including a ten year old girl, are reportedly killed by police officials. International observers conclude “serious anomalies” within the process. The Brazilian reporter Mirella Domenich and the German filmmaker H.-Christian Goertz witness the electoral process from two months prior to election day until the inaugurational ceremony to produce “The Making of a President”. More than a record for posterity and a denouncement of human rights violation, this documentary features the success and the fiasco of the elections from an unbiased approach, with exclusive footage never seen before. History cannot be deleted.
Military veterans are getting ready to welcome the President passing through their village.
The arrival represents a big event even for the school children.
Not too many white people passing through the more remote areas of Malawi ...
... especially not in a vehicle like this.
A baby and her mother waiting for the monthly food distribution.
To cast a vote is still something special in a young democracy like Malawi.
After waiting for more than 48 hours for any official election results ...
... the people take their frustration to the streets.
President Mutharika and Dr.Muluzi at the inauguration ceremony at the Blantyre stadium.
The human rights NGO Cilic teams up with Minibus Media to finalize the documentary.
