Zambia votes in elections expected to favour incumbent Hichilema
LUSAKA, Aug 13 (Reuters) - Zambia goes to the polls on Thursday in a general election widely expected to give President Hakainde Hichilema a second term, although frustration over the cost of living may dent his support.
Zambia is set to hold general elections on Thursday, expected to boost incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema's chances of securing a second term. Hichilema, who has led the copper-producing nation since 2021, is banking on his economic record, having successfully managed the country's debt restructuring and economic recovery following a sovereign debt default in 2020.
His main rival, Brian Mundubile, is a seasoned parliamentarian and first-time presidential candidate, leading an opposition alliance backed by supporters of Hichilema's predecessor, late former President Edgar Lungu.
The elections will feature simultaneous presidential, parliamentary, and local government contests. To win the presidency outright, a candidate must secure over 50% of the votes. If no candidate achieves this threshold, a run-off will be held between the top two contenders within 37 days of the initial vote. Analysts predict that Hichilema, despite some friction within the opposition camp, will likely prevail.
However, concerns persist over the fairness of the election process, with allegations of political repression in the country of 22 million people. The Freedom House, a U.S. non-profit organization, rates Zambia as "partly free," acknowledging that while regular multi-party elections take place, opposition parties face significant legal and practical hurdles.
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