President leads Zambia election vote count

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema is leading the presidential vote count after more than 100 constituencies reported results, putting him on course for a second term as the country awaits the outcome of its closely watched election, according to Reuters on August 16th.

The election took place on August 13th alongside parliamentary and local council elections and has been closely watched as a test of Hichilema’s economic record since he took office in 2021.

Figures from the Electoral Commission of Zambia show that Hichilema had secured 54.82% of the votes counted from 105 of Zambia’s 226 constituencies, while his main challenger, Brian Mundubile, had 43%.

Hichilema came to power promising to revive an economy weighed down by a major debt crisis.

His government has since worked with international creditors on restructuring Zambia’s debt while seeking to attract investment and strengthen economic growth.

However, the president has faced pressure over the cost of living, with many Zambians still struggling with poverty and high household expenses despite improvements in some economic indicators.

The vote count was temporarily suspended after election officials were attacked and ballot papers were stolen. The Electoral Commission later said counting had resumed after security concerns were addressed.

Mundubile’s campaign has raised concerns about delays in announcing the results, while Hichilema has called for calm and patience as officials complete the counting process.

Zambia is Africa’s second-largest copper producer, making the election significant for investors and international partners interested in the country’s mining sector and critical mineral resources.

In recent years, countries including the UAE, China and Russia have demonstrated an interest in investing in Zambia.

Chinese firms have invested an estimated $6 billion in Zambia in the last 20 years; much of the investment is in metals.

Copper remains central to Zambia’s economy, generating export earnings and government revenue.

If Hichilema maintains more than 50% of the vote, he will win re-election without a runoff. If no candidate reaches the required threshold, a second round would be held within 37 days.

The election also comes amid concerns about political tensions and the conduct of the campaign.

Furthermore, Hichilema’s government has faced accusations of political repression, which it has denied.

With more constituencies still to report, attention is now focused on whether Hichilema can maintain his lead and secure another five-year term.

The final result will determine the direction of Zambia’s economic policies and its approach to debt management, investment, and the mining sector.

Reuters, Maghrebi.org