Zambia resumes vote counting after security concerns halt electoral process

Zambia has resumed the vote counting process after it was halted due to security concerns over alleged attacks on polling staff. The electoral commission expressed worry about reports of violence resulting in stolen ballot papers. President Hakainde Hichilema, seeking a second five-year term, faces 13 challengers, with Brian Mundubile as the main opposition candidate.

The commission aims to announce the results by the end of the week. After a review, they confirmed the security threat has been contained and measures are in place. Mundubile had previously expressed concern over delays in announcing presidential results, citing reports of military involvement and alleged ballot box tampering. He called for immediate result announcements and protection of the chain of custody.

Zambian voters had the chance to choose a new president, MPs, and local councils, with the election viewed as a test of the country's stability. Despite 14 presidential candidates, the race was largely seen as a two-way contest between Hichilema and Mundubile. Hichilema, who won in 2021, emphasizes job creation and infrastructure, while Mundubile, a former minister, aims to capitalize on voter dissatisfaction. The election outcome will determine if a run-off is necessary within 37 days.