Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema wins second term
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has been re-elected for a second five-year term, securing approximately 61% of the vote. The election process faced allegations of fraud and was marked by pre-election tensions and arrests.
Why it matters
The re-election of Hichilema is a significant political event in Southern Africa, occurring amidst a climate of electoral controversy and opposition suppression.
Official results show the incumbent receiving roughly 61 percent of votes, compared with 38 percent for his main challenger, Brian Mundubile.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema casts his ballot at the Kabulonga Boys Secondary School polling station in Lusaka on August 13, 2026 [AFP] By AFP and Reuters Published On 18 Aug 2026 18 Aug 2026 Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema has won re-election for a second five-year term, according to the electoral authorities, after a race marred by allegations of fraud.
Results released by the election commission in the early hours of Tuesday morning showed that Hichilema received roughly 61.4 percent of valid votes, compared with 38 percent for his main challenger, Brian Mundubile.
“I therefore declare Hichilema Hakainde S to be president-elect of the Republic of Zambia this 18th day of August, 2026,” commission chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis said.
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