Rumours of Chakwera's intention to run in the MCP's presidential race were first reported in online media on 9 April 2013.[8] They were confirmed on 14 April 2013.[2] Chakwera later submitted his nomination papers while still at the helm of the Malawi Assemblies of God.[9] The MCP convention slated for 27 April 2013 was later postponed[10] to 10 and 11 August where he was elected as the president of MCP and he will represent the party in the 2014 general election.