Trending 
Counting has begun in Zambia after polls closed on Thursday in a closely watched general election that could determine whether President Hakainde Hichilema secures a second five-year term.
More than eight million registered voters took part in the election to choose a president, members of parliament and local government representatives. A presidential candidate must secure more than 50 per cent of the votes cast to win outright. If no candidate reaches the threshold, Zambia will hold a run-off election within 37 days.
Polling day was largely peaceful, with long queues reported in several areas and only isolated delays at some voting centres. Civil society groups and international observers reported an orderly process, although some procedural challenges were recorded.
The election has tested Zambia’s reputation as one of Africa’s most stable democracies, with concerns raised over political freedoms and the state of the economy.
Economic issues dominated conversations among voters, particularly unemployment and the rising cost of living. Although Hichilema’s administration has pointed to debt restructuring, currency improvements and lower inflation as achievements, many citizens said they were yet to feel the impact of the recovery.
The race was largely viewed as a contest between the incumbent and his main challenger, Brian Mundubile, a former minister in the Patriotic Front government.
After casting his vote, Mundubile said his campaign represented “peace and unity” while focusing on opportunities for young people and women.
“This is indeed our second independence. I want every Zambian to celebrate this day,” he said.
Hichilema, 64, who won the 2021 election after six attempts, is campaigning on job creation and infrastructure development as he seeks a second and final term.
Speaking after voting, he said his government had completed major economic reforms and was now focused on improving living standards.
“After doing the heavy lifting, such as debt restructure, restoring the mining sector, now we want a step change in the growth so that we can take care of society,” Hichilema said.
For some voters, the election was an opportunity to reward progress. James Phiri, a 29-year-old University of Zambia student, said he voted for Hichilema because “he cares about us” and added that conditions had improved after the return of meal allowances for students.
Others expressed frustration over the pace of economic change. Samuel Chitendwe, a 47-year-old welder and father of four, said he supported Mundubile, saying voters were tired of hearing about economic progress without seeing enough improvement in their daily lives.
With counting now in progress, Zambia awaits the final result and whether the country will see a second-round presidential contest.
