As Zambia prepares for a pivotal election, the spectre of former president Edgar Lungu looms large over the political landscape. Current president Hakainde Hichilema, who triumphed over Lungu in a decisive victory in 2021, is seeking re-election amid a backdrop of contentious political rivalry and economic challenges.
Political Tensions Resurface
The rivalry between Hichilema and the late Lungu continues to shape the narrative of the election. Following Lungu’s passing in June 2025, the tensions between their families have escalated rather than subsided. This discord reached a crescendo when the Zambian government attempted to prevent Lungu’s family from conducting his burial without Hichilema presiding over a state funeral. The South African Supreme Court ultimately ruled in favour of Lungu’s family, allowing them autonomy over the burial arrangements and highlighting the fraught nature of Zambian politics.
In this election cycle, Hichilema faces off against the Tonse Alliance, led by Brian Mundubile, a former government chief whip under Lungu. Mundubile’s running mate, Makebi Zulu, has taken a prominent role as spokesperson for the Lungu family, advocating for a dignified return of Lungu’s remains to Zambia. This campaign promise plays on the cultural significance of death and burial practices in Zambian society, as noted by Christopher Vandome of Chatham House, who emphasised the importance of respect for the deceased in Zambian political discourse.
Allegations of Authoritarianism
The political climate is further complicated by allegations from the opposition regarding Hichilema’s governance style. The Tonse Alliance has accused the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) of employing authoritarian tactics, including the detention of opposition members and interruptions to their rallies.
Hichilema’s team has vehemently denied these accusations, asserting that Zambians are well aware of genuine repression, as evidenced by Hichilema’s own experiences during Lungu’s presidency. A spokesperson for the UPND pointed out that the current environment allows for freer opposition campaigning than was the case during the last election when Hichilema faced numerous arrests and media restrictions.
However, Transparency International Zambia has reported instances where police have disrupted opposition events, raising concerns about impartiality in law enforcement during the electoral process. Activists have also voiced their frustrations over the suppression of peaceful protests, indicating that the current administration’s approach might be more restrictive than publicly acknowledged.
Economic Landscape and Voter Sentiment
While Hichilema’s administration has steered Zambia’s economy towards stability—annual inflation has decreased significantly from 24.6% in July 2021 to 6.5%—the tangible benefits of this recovery remain elusive for many citizens. The government’s efforts to offer free primary and secondary education in 2022 and the recent promise of increased accommodation allowances for students are steps aimed at winning over the youth vote.
However, the rising cost of living poses a substantial challenge. Despite an increase in average annual income from $1,127 to $1,318 between 2021 and 2025, many Zambians are struggling to access basic necessities. Activists have highlighted that the economic recovery has not yet translated into improved living standards for the majority, a sentiment echoed by citizens questioning the disparity between economic statistics and their lived reality.
The Road Ahead
As the election approaches, nearly 8.8 million registered voters will not only cast their ballots for the presidency but also for Members of Parliament and local councillors. The interplay between Hichilema’s past achievements, ongoing political rivalries, and the pressing economic concerns of the electorate will undoubtedly shape the outcome.
Why it Matters
The outcome of this election carries significant implications for Zambia’s political stability and economic future. As Hichilema seeks to consolidate his power against a backdrop of familial rivalries and economic discontent, the electorate’s response will not only determine the direction of the country but also set a precedent for how political legacies are navigated in a nation still grappling with the complexities of its democratic evolution. The Zambian people stand at a crossroads, where their choices will reflect their aspirations for governance, representation, and a more equitable economic landscape.
