Zambia Goes to the Polls as Hichilema Seeks Re-election

Lusaka, 13 August 2026 - Zambians are voting in presidential, parliamentary and local elections that could give President Hakainde Hichilema a second term, amid growing public concerns over rising prices and the cost of living.

Hichilema, who took office in 2021, is campaigning on his government’s economic record, including efforts to reduce public debt and revive the economy after Zambia defaulted on its debt in 2020. However, many voters say improvements in economic indicators, including slowing inflation, have yet to translate into meaningful relief in their daily lives.

His main challenger, veteran lawmaker Brian Mundubile, is contesting the presidency for the first time. He leads an opposition coalition supported by backers of late former President Edgar Lungu. Analysts say Hichilema remains well positioned because divisions within the opposition could limit its ability to consolidate support behind a single alternative.

The election has also been accompanied by allegations of voter suppression, which the government has rejected. Polling stations opened at 6 a.m. and were scheduled to close at 6 p.m., with the Electoral Commission expected to announce the presidential results on Monday.

A candidate must secure more than 50% of the vote to win outright. If no candidate reaches the threshold, a runoff between the top two contenders must be held within 37 days of the first round.