Lusaka, Zambia — August 18, 2026 – President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia has been re-elected for a second term, securing approximately 60% of the valid vote in the August 13, 2026, election. His main challenger, Brian Mundubile, secured nearly 38% of the vote.
The results were announced by the Electoral Commission of Zambia, with the chairperson, Mwangala Zaloumis, noting that the outstanding results from five constituencies would not significantly alter the outcome.
The election, which was closely watched due to the country’s economic challenges and political tensions, has been marked by opposition allegations of irregularities.
The opposition, led by Mundubile, claimed that documents listing the results had been tampered with, which they said risked the integrity of the tally.
The electoral commission was criticized for suspending vote counting for around six hours on Friday following reports of violence against polling staff and the alleged theft of ballot papers.
The count resumed after authorities announced the security threat had been contained. International observer missions, including the European Union, expressed concerns about the pause’s impact on the credibility of the process and voter confidence. Hichilema’s re-election follows a first term focused on steering Zambia out of its debt crisis, restoring relations with international lenders, attracting investment, and reviving growth in Africa’s second-largest copper producer.
While he highlights debt restructuring and lower inflation as key achievements, critics argue that the gains have yet to translate into better living standards for ordinary citizens.
As Hichilema begins his second term, the focus will be on whether he can address the economic challenges and the political tensions that have surrounded the electoral process.
The next few years will be crucial in determining the direction of Zambia’s political and economic landscape.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Panafricanvisions
Source: Pan African Visions
