Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema Wins Second Term

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has won a second five-year term after securing a clear majority in the country’s August 13, 2026 presidential election.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) declared Hichilema the winner in the early hours of August 18, after completing the national tally.

The incumbent, who ran on the ticket of the United Party for National Development (UPND), secured 2,965,326 votes, comfortably surpassing the constitutional threshold required to win the presidency without a run-off. His closest challenger, Brian Mundubile of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity, received 1,856,217 votes.

Hichilema Set to Serve Until 2031

Hichilema’s victory extends his presidency, which began in 2021 after he defeated then-President Edgar Lungu.

During his first term, his administration focused heavily on restoring Zambia’s economic stability, restructuring the country’s debt and attracting investment, particularly in the mining sector. His government also expanded social programmes, including free education.

The president is now expected to focus on economic growth, job creation, investment, agricultural modernisation, domestic manufacturing and improving energy resilience during his second term.

However, the election was not without controversy. Opposition figures raised concerns over the conduct of the polls and restrictions affecting opposition activities. International observers also criticised aspects of the electoral process and the treatment of opposition figures.

Despite the concerns, Hichilema was sworn in for his second term on September 1, 2026, at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka in the presence of several African leaders, including Kenyan President William Ruto.

The second term will now test Hichilema’s ability to turn the economic gains recorded during his first five years into improved living standards for ordinary Zambians while maintaining investor confidence and democratic institutions.

For Zambia, the coming five years will be closely watched as the government seeks to build on the country’s economic recovery while addressing concerns over the cost of living, employment and political freedoms.