In brief
More than eight million Zambians voted today as polls opened to decide the president and parliament. Incumbent Hakainde Hichilema, who steered an economic rebound, faces his main rival Brian Mundubile, a former minister from the previous ruling party. While voters praise job creation and meal allowances, concerns over unemployment, rising living costs and a disputed late president’s burial keep the mood tense. Eyewitnesses describe the chilly morning, long queues and high civic engagement at the polling stations.
More than eight million voters turned out across Zambia today as the national election opened at 06:00 local time (04:00 GMT) and closed at 18:00.
Incumbent Hakainde Hichilema, who has steered an economic rebound, is campaigning for a second five‑year term. His main challenger, Brian Mundubile, a former minister in the former Patriotic Front government, enjoys backing from supporters of the late former president Edgar Lungu.
Voters cite job creation and the re‑introduction of meal allowances as positives, while unemployment and the rising cost of living remain pressing concerns. The mood at polling stations is tense, with long queues and a chilly morning in Lusaka’s capital.
Eyewitness voices:
- “Zambians are frustrated and this election is a 50‑50, that is why we are all here early to make the change,” said 26‑year‑old Mwiche Nalupumbwe.
- University student James Phiri, 29, told Reuters: “Things are better after he re‑introduced meal allowances.”
- Welder and father of four, Samuel Chitendwe, 47, added: “I just came from firing someone. We are tired of stories about economic progress.”
May the election reinforce Zambia’s reputation as a stable democracy. If no candidate secures a majority, a run‑off will be held within 37 days.
