Bakili Muluzi vs Lord Willingdon

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.

Willingdon was appointed Viceroy of India, succeeding Lord Irwin. His tenure was marked by a hardline approach to the Indian independence movement, including the suppression of the Civil Disobedience Movement and the arrest of Congress leaders.

Willingdon launched a crackdown on the Indian National Congress, arresting Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and thousands of other activists. He banned Congress organizations and imposed emergency powers, effectively crushing the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Willingdon's government implemented the Communal Award, which granted separate electorates for minorities, including depressed classes (Dalits). The award was opposed by Gandhi, who went on a fast-unto-death, leading to the Poona Pact.

Willingdon's tenure saw the passage of the Government of India Act 1935, which proposed a federal structure and provincial autonomy. The act was a major constitutional reform but was criticized for retaining British control over key areas and for its communal provisions.