Zambia’s Hichilema sworn in for a second term

Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema has taken office for a second five-year term following a contentious election and the arrest of his chief rival on treason charges. Hichilema secured 60% of the vote on August 13, according to official results, while his nearest competitor, Brian Mundubile, garnered 38%. Mundubile accused the election of being rigged, but he forfeited his chance to contest the results as court proceedings were halted on the final day for filing a case.

Observers noted that, though polling day was generally peaceful, there were doubts about the vote counting procedure. EU observers reported that some tallying centers failed to log results promptly following the announcements and questioned the consistency between digital entries and paper records. They also noted that returning officers often stopped proceedings to await instructions from headquarters.

On the day after the election, security forces carried out a raid at a property in the capital, Lusaka, linked to Mundubile, resulting in the death of a former cabinet minister and the arrest of several opposition politicians. The authorities claimed the opposition was preparing an armed uprising, a claim denied by the opposition.

Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, were apprehended by police last week and charged at the weekend. In his inauguration address on Tuesday, Hichilema did not address Mundubile's detention; however, he emphasized that the pursuit of political power should not jeopardize peace, security, and stability in Zambia. He also extended an invitation to the opposition to cooperate with his administration for the country's benefit: "When you have a good idea, we will listen to you."

Hichilema was sworn in amidst a festive atmosphere as thousands of supporters rallied to honor the inauguration. Among the African leaders present were representatives from Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Tanzania. Upon taking office in 2021, Hichilema inherited a landlocked nation with a copper-dependent economy that had defaulted on its international debt and experienced an annual inflation rate exceeding 24%.

During his first term, he successfully renegotiated the debt and improved relations with foreign creditors. While inflation has since decreased, prices continue to escalate, and many still grapple with the high cost of living. Hichilema now aims to leverage the progress made during his first term, stating that the subsequent five years will focus on fostering growth and prosperity for all Zambians.