Zambia president inaugurated for second term after disputed vote and opposition arrests

Lusaka, Zambia (AP) — Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema inaugurated himself for a second term on Tuesday following a disputed election that led to the arrest of some opposition leaders and the closure of the nation's courts for legal challenges to the election results.

On August 18, Hichilema was declared the victor in the presidential race, securing approximately 60% of the votes according to the Electoral Commission of Zambia. His main rival, opposition leader Brian Mundubile, obtained around 38% of the votes.

Mundubile alleged voting irregularities and contested the election results. The inauguration ceremony took place at the National Heroes Stadium in the capital city, Lusaka, in front of thousands of supporters.

A range of African leaders, including Kenya's President William Ruto, Botswana's President Duma Boko, and Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa, attended the event.

In his speech, Hichilema acknowledged the support of those who voted for the opposition, stating, "We receive your support with humility and with a clear understanding of the responsibility it places upon our shoulders." He added, "To those who chose other candidates or other parties, we say with equal sincerity, we have heard you."

The election has been marred by concerns over the arrest of Mundubile and his running mate, Makebu Zulu. Local media reported that the pair are being held at the Mukobeko Maximum Security Prison in central Zambia. Mundubile reportedly went into hiding in fear for his life after contesting the results and his home being raided by security forces the day after the elections. He and Zulu surrendered to police on August 24 after seeking refuge at a United Nations building.