Presidential vote counting halted in Zambia over alleged attacks on polling staff

Zambia's electoral commission has suspended the nationwide counting of votes from Thursday's presidential, parliamentary and local elections over alleged attacks on polling staff. The vote was seen as a test of Zambia's reputation for stability amid concerns about political freedoms. President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second five-year term, facing opposition from Brian Mundubile in a race that many saw as a contest between incumbent and challenger.

The electoral commission had set a target to announce results by the end of Sunday, but the count was halted immediately after polls closed, citing violence that led to stolen ballot papers. The decision to suspend the count was to be reviewed within 24 hours. Mundubile had expressed grave concern over reported delays, alleging military involvement, manipulation attempts, and issues with ballot box handling.

The election was largely peaceful, with queues at polling stations in the capital Lusaka. The outcome will determine the future of Hichilema's government and Zambia's democratic stability.