Zambia’s President Hichilema Wins Re-Election with 60% of Votes BODY: Lusaka, Zambia – August 18, 2026 – President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia has been re-elected for a second term, securing 60% of the votes in the August 13, 2026, presidential election. His main opponent, Brian Mundubile, received 38% of the votes.
The election, which also included National Assembly and local council elections, saw Hichilema’s United Party for National Development (UPND) consolidate its hold on power.
The Zambian Electoral Commission (ECZ) announced the results, confirming that the remaining 65 constituencies would not significantly alter the overall result. Hichilema’s win comes amidst a fragmented opposition, with the country’s political landscape marked by unusual confusion and the arrests of opponents during the election period.
The election process was conducted under the watchful eyes of international observers and domestic watchdogs.
According to the Zambian Economist, results were consolidated from 161 of the 226 constituencies, with the remaining 65 still being counted, verified, and transmitted to the National Results Centre in Lusaka.
The vote counting was briefly suspended on August 14, following reports of violence and ballot theft in some districts.
The political climate leading up to the election was tense. Le Figaro and lapresse. Ca reported confusion in the political landscape, noting the arrests of opponents as notable events during the election period.
Despite these challenges, the ECZ maintained that the election was peaceful and transparent. Hichilema’s re-election is seen as a testament to his economic policies and his administration’s efforts to diversify the country’s economy, which is heavily reliant on copper. During his first term, Hichilema introduced several reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment and improving the business environment.
The international community has expressed mixed reactions to the election results. While some countries have congratulated Hichilema on his victory, others have expressed concerns about the political climate and the treatment of opposition figures.
As Hichilema begins his second term, the focus will be on his administration’s ability to address the country’s economic challenges and maintain political stability.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Agpgabon
Source: Redaction
