Zambians voting as president bids for second term

Zambians are heading to the polls to elect a president and parliament, with more than eight million registered voters casting their ballots. The voting period begins at 06:00 local time (04:00 GMT) and is set to conclude at 1800. This election is viewed as a crucial test of Zambia's reputation for maintaining stability as a democratic nation, despite ongoing concerns about the erosion of political freedoms. Key issues for voters include unemployment and the increasing cost of living.

President Hakainde Hichilema is aiming for a second term, having successfully steered Zambia through a period of economic recovery. However, many citizens complain that living costs remain unaffordable. The race to win the presidency is predominantly seen as a battle between Hichilema and his main opponent, Brian Mundubile. Mundubile is a former minister within the Patriotic Front (PF) government that governed Zambia from 2011 to 2021, and his support base includes those who mourned the late former President, Edgar Lungu.

Lungu passed away over a year ago, and his remains are still unburied in South Africa, contributing to a contentious legal dispute between Lungu's family and Hichilema. This dispute has further deepened the political divisions in Zambia.

Hichilema, now 64, secured victory in the 2021 election on his sixth attempt. He is banking on his promise of job creation and an ambitious infrastructure development plan to win a second five-year term. Mwiche Nalupumbwe, a 26-year-old poll worker, among hundreds who braved the early morning cold to queue before polling stations opened, said, "Zambians are frustrated and this election is a 50-50, that is why we are all here early to make the change."

James Phiri, a 29-year-old university student, echoed a similar sentiment, telling Reuters that he voted for Hichilema because "he cares about us," citing improved meal allowances under his leadership. Conversely, Samuel Chitendwe, a 47-year-old welder and father of four, opted to vote for Mundubile, stating, "I have just come from firing someone.

We are tired of stories about economic progress." A presidential candidate must obtain more than 50% of the votes to win outright, or they will face a runoff election, which must be held within 37 days of the initial vote.