Zambia's Hichilema secures second term

Hakainde Hichilema has been re-elected President of Zambia for a second five-year term. The Electoral Commission of Zambia announced his victory. Hichilema, the incumbent, received approximately 61.4 percent of votes. His main challenger, Brian Mundubile, garnered around 38 percent. This marks Hichilema's seventh presidential bid; he first took office in 2021 after a decisive victory. His United Party for National Development celebrated, with supporters gathering in Lusaka.The electoral process, however, faced controversy. Opposition parties raised concerns about alleged irregularities. Vote counting was suspended after reports of violence at polling stations and claims of ballot box theft. Authorities confirmed arrests of prominent opposition figures during a raid reportedly involving gunfire. Despite these incidents, international observers, including the European Union, noted the election was largely peaceful, though some highlighted unequal campaign conditions and restrictions on fundamental freedoms.Hichilema's re-election campaign focused on his economic record. He pledged to continue rebuilding an economy that faced significant debt challenges. His administration has worked to restructure Zambia's debt, rein in inflation, and stabilize the national currency. Zambia, Africa's second-largest copper producer with 22 million people, sees economic recovery as a central promise. The opposition, led by Mundubile, focused on public frustration over the cost of living, arguing economic improvements had not translated into tangible benefits for households. Hichilema stated he is humbled by the trust and vowed to work for all citizens, including his opponents' supporters.