Zambia held general elections on Thursday, August 13, 2026, with President Hakainde Hichilema widely expected to secure a second term. Since taking office in 2021, Hichilema has led the southern African copper-producing nation through debt restructuring and an economic rebound following a 2020 sovereign debt default.

The elections, which included presidential, parliamentary, and local government contests, require a presidential candidate to win more than 50% of votes cast to avoid a run-off. Hichilema's main challenger was Brian Mundubile, a seasoned parliamentarian and first-time presidential candidate heading an opposition alliance supported by followers of former president Edgar Lungu.

Despite large crowds at Mundubile's rallies, historian and analyst Euston Chiputa expressed confidence that the ruling party would prevail, citing opposition fragmentation. Parliamentary and local government candidates from Mundubile's party and his running mate's party competed against each other in some areas, weakening the opposition's overall strength.

Political science lecturer Lee Habasonda of the University of Zambia noted that the opposition retains support in Lusaka and Copperbelt Province, regions with significant numbers of registered voters, keeping the competition alive.

Investors broadly expect Hichilema to win, with the critical question being whether he can convert the post-default economic recovery into sustainable, job-creating growth if granted a second term.

Polls were open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time (0400 to 1600 GMT), with results scheduled for Monday, August 17, according to the Electoral Commission.

Sources

France 24 English