Vote counting underway in Zambia after presidential election

News Vote counting underway in Zambia after presidential election Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema casts his vote at a polling station in Lusaka, Zambia, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026. - Copyright © africanews Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. By Dominic Wabwireh with AP Last updated: 13/08 - 22:42 Lusaka Vote counting is underway after Zambians cast ballots Thursday in a presidential election testing incumbent Hakainde Hichilema’s economic record against widespread frustration over the cost of living. About 8 million voters were registered, with results expected Monday. Hichilema, who came to power in 2021, is seeking a second five-year term after restructuring the country’s debt, stabilising the economy and attracting investment. But many households continue to struggle with high food prices, unemployment and unreliable electricity, leaving the president under pressure to show that economic growth is improving everyday lives. Hichilema cast his ballot in Lusaka and framed the election as a choice between continuing his reforms and reversing course. “This election is really about the people of Zambia and their future — progress as opposed to regression,” he told reporters. Opposition promises change Brian Mundubile, regarded as Hichilema’s strongest challenger, has campaigned on promises to reduce the cost of living, strengthen agriculture and restore democratic freedoms. After voting in Lusaka, Mundubile urged supporters to remain peaceful and said the election would deliver a new direction for the country. “This is a revolution,” he said. “The will of the Zambian people will certainly prevail in this election.” Fourteen candidates are contesting the presidency, with a candidate required to secure more than 50 percent of the vote to avoid a runoff. Voters seek better lives Long queues formed before dawn at polling stations across Lusaka, with voters braving unusually cold conditions. Mathias Ngoma, in his 70s, said voting was his opportunity to influence the country’s future. “I braved the cold to choose leaders I am hoping will make things better in our constituency,” he said. Others said economic pressures were central to their decision. Entrepreneur Meki Mulota said she wanted policies that would allow businesses to survive as the cost of living remains high. Christopher Banda, meanwhile, said he backed Hichilema because he believed the country was moving in the right direction. Copper puts election in spotlight The outcome is also being closely watched internationally because of Zambia’s vast copper resources. The metal is essential to electric vehicles, renewable energy systems and power grids, making the country increasingly important to the global energy transition. Hichilema has sought investment from both China and Western partners and aims to increase annual copper production to 3 million metric tons by 2031. Security and democracy concerns The vote comes amid concerns over political tensions and democratic freedoms. Police increased security ahead of polling day and warned against violence, disruption and the spread of false election results. Opposition parties and rights groups have accused Hichilema’s government of using state institutions against critics and political opponents. The government rejects the allegations. Zambia has nevertheless maintained a reputation for relative political stability, with Hichilema’s 2021 victory marking the country’s third peaceful transfer of power to an opposition party since the return of multiparty democracy in 1991. The Electoral Commission of Zambia is expected to announce the final results on Monday. Related articles 01:21 Zambians vote as Hichilema’s economic record faces crucial test 13/08 - 16:26 Meet the main contenders in Zambia's presidential vote 13/08 - 11:42 02:26 Hichilema rallies thousands as Zambia heads to presidential vote 12/08 - 14:42 Share More About Lusaka Hakainde Hichilema Presidential elections Related articles 01:21 Zambians vote as Hichilema’s economic record faces crucial test 13/08 - 16:26 Meet the main contenders in Zambia's presidential vote 13/08 - 11:42 02:26 Hichilema rallies thousands as Zambia heads to presidential vote 12/08 - 14:42 On the same subject NEWS 01:06 Zambian opposition leader Mundubile taken into custody on treason charges 28/08 - 09:48 NEWS 01:05 Opposition urges African Union to intervene in Zambia's disputed election 27/08 - 17:13 NEWS 01:06 Uganda President’s son Muhoozi announces 2031 presidential bid 26/08 - 22:44 NEWS 01:11 Tanzanian opposition leader to face trial on treason charges 21/08 - 15:23 NEWS 00:56 Police summon Zambian opposition leader for questioning after disputed vote 21/08 - 15:20 NEWS 01:05 Zambian opposition leader to challenge presidential poll results in court 20/08 - 11:42 More stories 01:25 General Abdourahamane Tchiani Calm returns to Niger's capital one day after failed army mutiny 6 hours ago 01:02 Coup Vote counting underway in Guinea-Bissau referendum that could expand presidential powers 5 hours ago 00:56 United Kingdom Notting Hill Carnival kicks off in a burst of colour and Caribbean tradition 1 hour ago

Vote counting underway in Zambia after presidential election

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