Zambia's president to be sworn in for second term while opponent detained
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second term following a contentious election. The transition is marked by the detention of his main political opponent on treason charges and concerns from international observers regarding the vote tallying process.
Why it matters
The situation highlights significant political instability and democratic challenges in Zambia following a disputed electoral outcome.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Wycliffe Muia and Damian Zane Reuters In his speech after being sworn in President Hakainde Hichilema said: "We are moving from stabilisation to growth" Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second five-year term following a disputed election and the arrest of his main opponent on treason charges.
Hichilema - credited with stabilising the economy - swept to victory on 13 August with 60% of the vote, according to official results. Runner-up Brian Mundubile, who received 38%, alleged that the outcome had been tampered with.
He was unable to mount a legal challenge to the result as the courts were sealed off last week on the final day a case could be filed.
Election observers said that while polling day was largely peaceful, some have raised questions about the vote tallying process.
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