Zambians are awaiting election results after voting in a closely watched presidential contest between incumbent Hakainde Hichilema and his strongest challenger, Brian Mundubile.
Counting begins
Vote counting is underway after about eight million registered voters cast their ballots on Thursday.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia is expected to announce the final results on Monday. Fourteen candidates contested the presidency, with a candidate needing more than 50% to win outright.
Hichilema seeks second term
Hakainde Hichilema is seeking another five-year term after taking office in 2021.
His government has restructured Zambia’s debt, worked to stabilise the economy and attracted investment, but many citizens continue to face high food prices, unemployment and unreliable electricity.
Opposition promises change
Brian Mundubile has campaigned on promises to lower the cost of living, strengthen agriculture and restore what he describes as democratic freedoms.
After voting, he urged supporters to remain peaceful and said the election would bring a new direction for Zambia.
Voters focused on economy
Long queues formed at polling stations across Lusaka, with voters braving unusually cold conditions to cast their ballots.
Economic conditions were a major concern, with some voters calling for policies that would help households and businesses cope with rising costs.
Others backed Hichilema, saying they believed his government was moving the country in the right direction.
Copper adds global interest
Zambia’s election is also being closely watched because of the country’s vast copper resources.
Copper is crucial to electric vehicles, renewable energy systems and power grids. Hichilema wants to increase annual production to three million metric tonnes by 2031.
Democracy under scrutiny
The election comes amid concerns over political tensions and democratic freedoms.
Police increased security ahead of voting and warned against violence, disruption and the spread of false election results.
Despite the concerns, Zambia remains known for relative political stability and has experienced several peaceful transfers of power since the return of multiparty democracy in 1991.
