Zambians began casting ballots Thursday in a presidential election that will determine whether President Hakainde Hichilema's economic reforms have been sufficient to alleviate widespread frustration over the cost of living.
Approximately 8 million registered voters in the southern African nation of 22 million are participating in the one-day election, which also includes votes for members of Parliament and local government councilors. The electoral commission expects results to be announced on Monday.
Long lines formed outside polling stations in Lusaka before dawn, with voters enduring the morning chill. Election officials prepared ballot boxes and voter lists, while European Union observers monitored proceedings at a polling station in the capital.
Hichilema, who is seeking a second term, faces 13 other presidential candidates, with Brian Mundubile of an opposition alliance anticipated to be his main rival. The election is largely viewed as a referendum on Hichilema's economic management. He took office in 2021, arguing that he inherited an economy in crisis and has since overseen the restructuring of Zambia's substantial foreign debt, facilitated economic growth, and attracted investors.
However, many Zambians report not feeling the economic benefits, as unemployment, rising food prices, and an unreliable electricity supply continue to strain household budgets. Hichilema maintains that an additional five years are necessary to create jobs, enhance infrastructure, and expand public services.
The election carries international significance due to Zambia's position as a major copper producer aiming to significantly boost its output of the metal, which is crucial for electric vehicles, renewable energy, and power grids. China is Zambia's largest foreign investor, holding extensive mining interests, while the United States seeks to increase its involvement to diversify critical mineral supplies and reduce dependence on China. Hichilema has actively pursued investments from both Chinese and Western partners, including the U.S., with the goal of increasing annual copper production to 3 million metric tons by 2031.
Security and political tensions escalated in the final days of the campaign. Police deployed additional officers and issued warnings against violence, disruptions, and the dissemination of false results. Opposition parties have accused Hichilema's administration of leveraging state institutions against political opponents, allegations the government denies. The Tonse Alliance cited a police raid on its offices shortly before the election as politically motivated.
Zambia has a history as one of southern Africa's more stable democracies, characterized by peaceful transfers of power. Hichilema's victory in 2021 marked the third instance of power shifting to an opposition candidate since the restoration of multiparty democracy in 1991. A presidential candidate requires over 50% of the vote to win outright and avoid a runoff election.