Lusaka, August 18, 2026 (TOP243NEWS).- Zambia’s incumbent President, Hakainde Hichilema, has been re-elected for a second term following the presidential election held on August 13, 2026, according to official results announced by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
The head of state, a candidate of the United Party for National Development (UPND), secured 61.4% of the vote, or nearly three million votes, comfortably defeating his main rival, Brian Mundubile, who received approximately 38%, according to the official results.
The victory allows Hakainde Hichilema, who was first elected in 2021, to continue his programme at the helm of the southern African country for another five-year term.
The campaign and vote-counting process were nevertheless marked by tensions.
The Electoral Commission temporarily suspended the counting after incidents involving electoral officials and reports of ballot theft. The process later resumed following the strengthening of security measures.
The election also took place against a particular economic backdrop. Hichilema’s first term was notably marked by efforts to restructure public debt and restore relations with international financial institutions. The re-elected president now intends to accelerate economic growth, particularly in the mining sector, and improve living conditions for the population.
Despite the clear victory, the opposition challenged certain aspects of the electoral process. International observers, for their part, raised concerns about the political environment and the conditions under which the campaign was conducted.
Following the announcement of his re-election, Hakainde Hichilema called for unity and extended a hand to voters who supported the opposition, pledging to continue working towards inclusive governance.
His re-election therefore confirms Zambian voters’ decision to keep Hichilema in power for a second term, while placing his administration before major challenges, including reducing the cost of living, creating jobs and ensuring that the country’s mineral resources generate greater benefits for the population.
Mike Pakoto | TOP243NEWS