Zambia’s Hichilema Re-Elected President For A Second Term

Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema has been re-elected for a second five-year term, securing roughly 60 percent of the vote in last week’s presidential election, the Electoral Commission of Zambia announced early Tuesday.

Hichilema, 64, of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), defeated his closest challenger, Brian Mundubile, who received about 38 percent. The remaining 12 candidates trailed far behind. Officials declared Hichilema the outright winner without the need for a runoff after results from the August 13 vote were finalized.

The announcement came after a contested process. Vote counting was temporarily suspended following reports of violence against polling staff and the theft of some ballot papers. It resumed the same day under heightened security.

Mundubile, 55, earlier claimed victory and alleged voting irregularities and discrepancies in results, without providing evidence. Opposition figures were arrested in a raid on Friday night that authorities said targeted a plot to stage an insurrection. Mundubile denied the allegations and described a raid on his Lusaka home involving armed personnel, an armoured vehicle, and gunfire, which he called an attempt on his life.

Mundubile has gone into hiding in a secure location, citing threats, according to reports. His party said he would communicate further when circumstances allow.

In a statement after the results, Hichilema said: “We are truly humbled by the trust you have placed in our hands.” He described the election as evidence that Zambia settles differences “at the ballot box, and nowhere else,” and pledged to work for all citizens, including those who supported opponents.

Regional and international observers noted that election day was largely peaceful but raised concerns about intimidation, an uneven playing field, and late electoral reforms. It remains unclear whether the opposition will formally challenge the outcome.

Hichilema first won power in 2021 amid an economic crisis. His re-election comes as Zambia, Africa’s second-largest copper producer, continues efforts to stabilize its economy and attract investment.