Zambia Votes: Hichilema’s Economic Comeback Faces the Ultimate Test

Millions of Zambians are heading to the polls in a high-stakes presidential election that could determine the future of President Hakainde Hichilema’s economic reforms.

Hichilema is seeking another term after a first presidency marked by efforts to rebuild Zambia’s debt-ridden economy. But while international lenders have praised the country’s progress, many ordinary citizens say they are still struggling with high food prices, unemployment and persistent poverty.

About 8.7 million voters are expected to participate in the election, with young people and women forming a crucial part of the electorate.

Hichilema bets on economic reforms

Hichilema, popularly known as “HH”, won the presidency in 2021 after defeating the then-ruling Patriotic Front and taking over an economy that had defaulted on its sovereign debt.

His administration has since secured a major debt restructuring deal, restored an International Monetary Fund programme and returned the economy to growth.

Those achievements have earned praise from international financial institutions and investors.

But the economic recovery has not convinced everyone.

Rising living costs and limited employment opportunities remain major concerns, with more than 70 per cent of the population reportedly living on less than $3 a day.

For many voters, the election has become a simple question: Is the economic recovery worth continuing, or is it time for a change?

Opposition hopes to spring a surprise

Although 14 candidates are contesting the presidency, the race has increasingly become a battle between Hichilema and opposition candidate Brian Mundubile.

Mundubile, a 55-year-old former minister, has gained momentum after several opposition groups rallied behind his campaign.

His strategy is largely focused on winning over supporters of former President Edgar Lungu’s Patriotic Front, particularly in Zambia’s northern and eastern regions.

Analysts say the opposition alliance has brought fresh energy to the campaign and could appeal strongly to young voters, women and rural communities.

However, Mundubile faces the challenge of expanding beyond the traditional opposition strongholds, while his association with the previous administration could also influence voters.

Young voters could decide the outcome

Nearly half of Zambia’s registered voters are between 18 and 35, making the youth vote potentially decisive.

Young Zambians are particularly concerned about jobs, the cost of living and economic opportunities.

The election could therefore hinge on whether voters believe Hichilema should be given more time to consolidate his reforms or whether the current economic pressures demand a new government.

Copper and China in the spotlight

Zambia is Africa’s second-largest copper producer, making the mining industry central to its economic future.

Hichilema’s government has set an ambitious target of tripling copper production by 2031 in an effort to attract investment and boost economic growth.

Chinese companies remain major players in Zambia’s mining sector, underlining Beijing’s growing economic influence in the country.

Election tensions raise concerns

The campaign has also been overshadowed by reports of clashes between rival supporters, allegations of intimidation and complaints about restrictions on opposition activities.

Police have reportedly used tear gas to disperse clashes, while Mundubile’s party has accused authorities of limiting its campaign events.

The opposition candidate also alleged that snipers were deployed during a campaign event in Mongu, although the claim remains unverified.

Polling stations are scheduled to open at 6 a.m. local time and close 12 hours later.

Voters will also elect an expanded parliament, with directly elected parliamentary seats increasing from 156 to 226.

Presidential results are expected by August 17, according to the electoral commission’s timetable. A candidate must win more than 50 per cent of valid votes to avoid a runoff.

For Hichilema, the election is more than a bid for another term—it is a referendum on whether his economic recovery is reaching ordinary Zambians. For the opposition, it represents an opportunity to turn public frustration into a political comeback.