Zambia's general election on Wednesday, August 12th, 2026, centers on economic recovery, governance reforms, and significant changes to the parliamentary landscape. Incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema, leader of the United Party for National Development (UPND), is seeking a second term against 14 opponents. His main challenger is Brian Mundubile, a former ally of the late President Edgar Lungu, who has gained support from a coalition of rival parties.

In April, the Electoral Commission announced the addition of 70 new constituencies, increasing parliamentary seats from 156 to 226. This change aims to create smaller, more localized voting districts.

Up to 8.7 million voters are expected to participate, with women comprising the majority. Official data indicates that over 70% of Zambia's population lives on less than three dollars a day, with many households earning between $60 and $100 (€52 and €87) monthly amid rising grocery prices. The current administration has introduced free education and expanded the Constituency Development Fund to support local development projects.

Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported that the high youth turnout, which contributed to President Hichilema's landslide victory in 2021, is anticipated to be a decisive factor again, particularly in densely populated urban areas. Nearly half of registered voters are aged between 18 and 35, making young voters a pivotal demographic, according to Institute for Security Studies researcher Zenge Simakoloyi.

Leah Diana Mitaba, publicity secretary of the Non-Governmental Coordinating Council, highlighted that Zambia remains far from achieving the 50:50 gender representation envisioned in the Constitution, the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, the African Union Agenda 2063, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. She emphasized the need for sustained democratic civic education to increase women's election to office. Mitaba also noted, "Politics is still a man's world. People doubt you, underestimate you and try to intimidate you."

Voters express concerns over the cost of living, with one stating, "I would like the new government to increase our salaries. [Maize meal] is very expensive. Everything is expensive."

Judicial independence remains a critical issue, defined as the ability to adjudicate any matter without fear or favor, regardless of the stakes involved.

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