Hans-Christian Goertz and Mirella Domenich

2004. 52 minutes. Malawi. Produced and Directed by Hans-Christian Goertz and Mirella Domenich. Documentary

In 2004, Malawi celebrated 10 years of democracy with its third general elections held on the 20th of May. The elections, however, raised the question to what extent the democratization process has reached this Southern African nation of 11 million people. While Dr. Bingu wa Mutharika from the ruling alliance was sworn in to office, Malawians were 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 10-year-old girl, are reportedly killed by police officials. International observers concluded 'serious anomalies' with the process. The Brazilian reporter Mirella Domenich and the German photojournalist Hans-Christian Goertz witnessed the electoral process from two months before the voting day until the inauguration ceremony to produce The Making of a President. More than a record for posterity and a denounciation of human rights violation, this documentary features the success and the failings of the elections.