As Zambians prepare to head to the polls, the shadow of former President Edgar Lungu looms large over the electoral landscape. Hakainde Hichilema, the incumbent president seeking a second term, finds himself embroiled in a complex rivalry with Lungu’s family, even following Lungu’s passing in June 2025. This election is thus not merely a contest of policies but a battle steeped in personal animosities, historical grievances, and pressing economic realities.
Political Tensions Resurface
Hichilema, 64, who triumphed over Lungu in a decisive victory in 2021, faces renewed challenges as the Tonse Alliance—led by Brian Mundubile, a former chief whip under Lungu—aims to reclaim power. The tension is palpable, particularly surrounding Lungu’s funeral arrangements, which became a flashpoint for political discord. The Zambian government sought to intervene, attempting to prevent Lungu’s family from conducting a private burial, leading to a legal skirmish that concluded with South Africa’s Supreme Court siding with Lungu’s relatives.
Mundubile’s campaign not only promises a dignified burial for Lungu but also seeks to leverage the emotional weight of his legacy to galvanise support. The former president’s family has remained a potent symbol of the past, and their influence continues to resonate among voters.
Allegations of Authoritarianism
The election campaign has been marred by accusations of authoritarian behaviour from Hichilema’s administration. The Tonse Alliance claims that government forces have targeted their rallies, with reports of police interruptions and the detention of opposition members. Tamika Halwiindi from Transparency International Zambia highlighted a trend of police bias favouring the ruling party, further complicating the electoral atmosphere.
In contrast, Hichilema’s supporters have strongly rebutted these claims, drawing parallels to the oppressive tactics employed by Lungu’s regime against Hichilema himself during the previous election cycle. A spokesperson for the ruling United Party for National Development asserted, “Zambians know what repression looks like,” emphasising the freedoms currently enjoyed by the opposition in comparison to the past.
Economic Progress Amidst Hardship
Under Hichilema’s leadership, Zambia’s economy has shown signs of recovery following a severe crisis that culminated in a debt default in 2020. Inflation has significantly dropped to 6.5%, a marked improvement from the staggering 24.6% recorded in July 2021. The government’s introduction of free primary and secondary education in 2022 has further been hailed as a progressive move.
However, the positive economic indicators contrast sharply with the lived experiences of many Zambians. Despite a rise in average annual income from $1,127 to $1,318 between 2021 and 2025, the cost of living has nearly doubled, leading to widespread discontent. Activists like Mputa Ngalande have voiced concerns over food insecurity, questioning the tangible benefits of economic policies. “If we are doing well economically, why are we not feeling impact on the ground?” he asked, highlighting the struggles of ordinary citizens to secure basic necessities.
Engaging the Youth Vote
In a bid to appeal to younger voters, Hichilema recently promised a substantial increase in accommodation allowances for university students, signalling a commitment to addressing the needs of the nation’s youth. His approach aims to connect with a demographic eager for change, yet the overarching concerns about living costs cannot be ignored.
As nearly 8.8 million registered voters prepare to cast their ballots, they will not only be deciding on a president but also on Members of Parliament and local councillors. The stakes are high, and the electorate’s sentiments will be pivotal in determining whether Hichilema can consolidate his power or if the opposition can reclaim the narrative.
Why it Matters
The upcoming elections in Zambia are not simply a reflection of political rivalry; they are a critical juncture in the country’s ongoing journey towards democratic consolidation and economic stability. With the spectre of past leadership and the realities of present governance weighing heavily on the electorate, the outcome could signal a significant shift in Zambian politics. As citizens grapple with economic pressures and historical legacies, their choices will shape the nation’s future and redefine its political landscape for years to come.