Zambia's Hichilema starts second term after disputed vote
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema begins his final term amid EU election concerns and treason charges against his main rival, Brian Mundubile.
President Hakainde Hichilema was inaugurated for a second and final term on Tuesday, promising Zambians would feel the benefits of an economic recovery. His re-election follows an August 13 vote where he won about 60 percent of the vote, but the process has been clouded by allegations of irregularities and the arrest of his main opponent.
The official results gave Hichilema approximately 60 percent against opposition challenger Brian Mundubile's 38 percent. Mundubile rejected the outcome and alleged irregularities. The European Union Election Observation Mission stated the election was competitive but held on an uneven playing field. It reported that transparency in the vote tabulation deteriorated significantly after a temporary suspension of counting.
Post-election tensions and arrests
After the largely peaceful polling day, tensions escalated. The Electoral Commission of Zambia suspended the tabulation of results on August 14 following violence at some counting centers and allegations of stolen election materials. The EU mission noted problems including extended breaks and a heavy military presence it described as intimidating.
Mundubile sought to challenge the result in court. On August 24, Zambia's High Courts were closed as the deadline for filing a petition approached. Human Rights Watch said this move prevented legal challenges, while authorities cited security concerns. The dispute intensified when Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, were arrested and charged with treason. Authorities have not publicly detailed the evidence. The two men had briefly sought refuge at a UN facility in Lusaka before surrendering.
A violent raid and a fatal shooting
The political confrontation turned violent shortly after the election. On August 14, security forces raided a Lusaka property linked to Mundubile. Former cabinet minister Mutotwe Kafwaya was fatally shot during the operation, and 11 others were arrested. Authorities said weapons were recovered and forces acted in self-defence, a claim Mundubile disputed.
Political scientist Neo Simutanyi told Al Jazeera such events were unexpected in Zambia. Since the end of one-party rule in 1991, the country has been seen as a stable multiparty democracy in the region.
Economic record under scrutiny
Hichilema's government points to substantial economic achievements since taking office in 2021. Zambia had defaulted on its sovereign debt in 2020. His administration has overseen a major debt restructuring and worked with the International Monetary Fund on reforms, helping restore investor confidence, particularly in the vital mining sector.
However, high food and energy costs persist for many citizens. Mundubile's campaign focused on the cost of living, arguing the economic gains had not reached ordinary Zambians. At his inauguration, Hichilema acknowledged these frustrations. He said many families have challenges with the cost of living.
International reaction and investor outlook
Investors have largely looked past the political turmoil, with Zambia's bonds remaining resilient. Both China and the United States congratulated Hichilema and sent representatives to his inauguration, highlighting Zambia's role as a major copper producer.
This creates a sharp contrast. International investors see government continuity and an improving economy, while opposition groups and observers focus on democratic institutions. Mundubile's lawyer, Milner Katolo, expressed hope for a negotiated settlement to heal the nation, suggesting the African Union and Southern African Development Community could help mediate. Simutanyi noted the investor perspective, stating they do not pay a damn about human rights.
