Zambia voters decide President Hichilema’s fate
Zambians went to the polls Thursday in an election focused on economic hardships in the copper-rich nation, where President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term. Voters queued from early morning to cast their ballots in a test of Hichilema’s first five years, during which the economy returned to growth that critics say has yet […]
On Thursday, Zambians went to the polls to decide the fate of President Hakainde Hichilema, who is seeking a second term amidst widespread economic hardships. Voters lined up early to cast their ballots in a critical test of Hichilema's administration, which returned economic growth but critics argue has yet to benefit ordinary households.
The government has been accused of curbing dissent, with opposition alleging harassment and restrictions on campaigning efforts. Amnesty International has raised concerns about "authoritarian practices".
Hichilema, 64, stated after voting that the government has embarked on reforms, delivering results even during challenges like drought and debt burden. He emphasized that there is still much work to be done, highlighting Zambia's status as Africa's second-largest copper producer. In recent years, the nation defaulted on its sovereign debt in 2020 but has since secured debt restructuring, completed an IMF-supported program, and set an ambitious goal to triple copper production by 2031.
Despite inflation dropping to 6.8% in April and the kwacha currency strengthening, many Zambians continue to struggle with high food and energy costs, and unemployment remains around 10%. Over 70% of the 22 million people in Zambia live on less than $3 a day, according to World Bank data.
Mwiche Nalupumbwe, a 26-year-old development worker, voiced the frustration felt by many, describing the election as a 50-50 race where Zambians are hoping for a change. Brian Mundubile, 55, the main challenger, entered the race in May, injecting uncertainty into the contest. He has claimed that the government has restricted his party's campaigning and described Zambia as a divided nation. The opposition-backed NRPUP, led by Mundubile, is running under a new platform drawing much of its political base from the PF.
With over 8.7 million registered voters, the presidential vote is expected to be completed by August 17. The winner must secure more than 50% to avoid a runoff. Patience Mususa, a senior researcher at the Nordic Africa Institute, believes that despite criticisms of Hichilema's progress on government inefficiencies and corruption, he is seen as a more predictable leader.
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