Zambians vote as Hichilema’s economic record faces crucial test

NewsZambians vote as Hichilema’s economic record faces crucial testA woman casts a 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 APLast updated: 13/08 - 16:26Presidential electionsZambians began voting Thursday in a presidential election testing President Hakainde Hichilema’s economic record amid widespread frustration over the cost of living. Millions are also choosing lawmakers and local councillors in a one-day vote expected to produce results on Monday. Before dawn, voters wrapped in thick jackets formed long queues outside polling stations across Lusaka as election officials prepared ballot boxes and checked voter registers. Some voters gathered around small fires to keep warm while waiting to cast their ballots.European Union election observers monitored proceedings at one polling station in the capital.A vote for the future For many voters, the election represents more than a choice between political parties. Akapelwa Akapelwa, a businessman, described casting his ballot as a relief and said voters were choosing the country's future and the prosperity of their children. Belinda Katanga said she was grateful to be able to exercise her democratic right, while Mululu Chirwa said voting fulfilled his responsibility as a Zambian citizen. Economic record under scrutiny Around eight million people are registered to vote in the southern African nation of 22 million. Hichilema, who took office in 2021, is seeking a second term after pursuing economic reforms aimed at stabilising the copper-rich country. But rising living costs have fuelled frustration among households, making the economy a central issue in the election. The president's supporters point to progress under his administration, while critics argue that economic gains have yet to translate into meaningful improvements for many ordinary Zambians. Every vote counts Mathias Ngoma, a voter in his 70s, said he had participated in every election he could because voting was “the only voice” he had. He said he braved the cold to choose leaders he hoped would improve his constituency and urged others to vote, stressing that every ballot matters. Results expected Monday Voters are also electing members of Parliament and local government councillors. The election is being held over one day, with the electoral commission expected to announce the presidential results on Monday. As polling stations opened across the country, voters faced a pivotal choice over whether to give Hichilema another term or seek a change of leadership amid continuing economic pressures.Related articlesMeet the main contenders in Zambia's presidential vote 13/08 - 11:4201:10Zambia: Polls open in elections expected to favour incumbent president 13/08 - 09:3002:26Hichilema rallies thousands as Zambia heads to presidential vote 12/08 - 14:42ShareMore About Presidential elections Africa Elections General election Zambia Hakainde HichilemaRelated articlesMeet the main contenders in Zambia's presidential vote 13/08 - 11:4201:10Zambia: Polls open in elections expected to favour incumbent president 13/08 - 09:3002:26Hichilema rallies thousands as Zambia heads to presidential vote 12/08 - 14:42On the same subjectNEWS01:06Zambian opposition leader Mundubile taken into custody on treason charges 28/08 - 09:48NEWS01:05Opposition urges African Union to intervene in Zambia's disputed election 27/08 - 17:13NEWS01:06Uganda President’s son Muhoozi announces 2031 presidential bid 26/08 - 22:44NEWS01:11Zambia courts shut on final day for election challenge 25/08 - 15:38NEWS01:11Tanzanian opposition leader to face trial on treason charges 21/08 - 15:23NEWS00:56Police summon Zambian opposition leader for questioning after disputed vote 21/08 - 15:20More stories01:25General Abdourahamane TchianiCalm returns to Niger's capital one day after failed army mutiny 6 hours ago01:02CoupVote counting underway in Guinea-Bissau referendum that could expand presidential powers 5 hours ago00:56United KingdomNotting Hill Carnival kicks off in a burst of colour and Caribbean tradition 1 hour agoRead the full article at Africanews