Voters go to the polls in Malawi general election

Malawi went to the polls Tuesday with the incumbent president and his predecessor vying for a second chance to govern the southern African nation that is facing economic turbulence.

There are 17 names in the running for president - but the race is considered to be between outgoing Lazarus Chakwera and and his predecessor Peter Mutharika.

Pastor Chakwera, 70, and law professor Mutharika, 85, have campaigned on improving the agriculture-dependent economy that is dealing with inflation topping 27 percent.

Long queues formed at several polling stations across the mostly rural country hours before they were due to open at 6 am (0400GMT), with some delays reported.

The election is also for seats in parliament and local wards. Polling stations close at 4 pm and ballot counting starts immediately.

With a winner requiring more than 50 percent of votes, a run-off within 60 days is likely.

Chakwera and Mutharika drew large crowds to colourful final rallies at the weekend.

With around 60 percent of the 7.2 million registered voters aged under 35, activists have been mobilising to overcome apathy and get young voters to the polls.