As Zambians prepare to head to the polls, 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 campaigning for a second term amid a backdrop of tension that has persisted even after Lungu’s death in June 2025. The rivalry between the two leaders, which has deeply influenced Zambian politics, continues to shape the narrative as the nation gears up for critical elections.
The Legacy of Edgar Lungu
The recent passing of Edgar Lungu has not silenced the ongoing feud between his family and Hichilema. Following Lungu’s death in South Africa, a court battle ensued over the arrangements for his funeral. The Zambian government attempted to prevent Lungu’s family from holding a private burial, but in June, South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal ruled in favour of Lungu’s family, allowing them to proceed as they wished. This incident has drawn attention to the profound cultural significance of how death is treated in Zambia, with observers noting that any perceived disrespect towards the deceased can negatively impact public perception of Hichilema’s administration.
Christopher Vandome, a senior research fellow at Chatham House, emphasised the importance of dignity in such matters, stating, “Even Hichilema supporters want to see due respect given to those that have died. When it appears things get messy, it just makes the incumbent look disrespectful.”
Opposition Campaigns and Allegations of Authoritarianism
In this electoral cycle, Hichilema is challenged by the Tonse Alliance, led by Brian Mundubile, the former chief whip under Lungu. Mundubile’s running mate, Makebi Zulu, has played a pivotal role as spokesperson for the Lungu family during the burial disputes. The alliance has made a promise to return Lungu’s body to Zambia for a proper burial, a move designed to resonate with the electorate amidst the charged political atmosphere.
However, allegations have surfaced accusing Hichilema of adopting authoritarian tactics throughout the campaign. Reports from Transparency International Zambia have indicated that police interventions have disrupted opposition rallies, raising concerns about the fairness of the electoral process. Tamika Halwiindi, a coordinator at the organisation, noted a pattern in these disruptions, suggesting they disproportionately target opposition and independent candidates while favouring the ruling party.
In response, Hichilema’s team has vehemently denied these claims, arguing that conditions during this election are notably more permissive than in previous years. A spokesperson for the ruling United Party for National Development highlighted the contrast to Hichilema’s own experiences during the 2021 elections, where he faced repeated arrests and media censorship. “Zambians know what repression looks like,” they insisted, pointing to the relative freedoms enjoyed by opposition parties in the current climate.
Economic Context and Voter Sentiment
Zambia’s economic landscape has shown signs of recovery since the turmoil experienced under Lungu’s administration. The inflation rate has dramatically decreased to 6.5% from a staggering 24.6% in July 2021, while the government has introduced free primary and secondary education. Additionally, Hichilema has garnered attention from younger voters by announcing a 50% increase in accommodation allowances for university students, a move that has been met with enthusiasm.
Despite these improvements, the reality on the ground remains challenging for many Zambians. While average annual income has risen from $1,127 to $1,318 between 2021 and 2025, soaring prices have left citizens questioning the tangible benefits of economic recovery. Mputa Ngalande from the Fight Inequality Alliance articulated this sentiment, remarking, “What people are asking is: ‘If we are doing well economically, why are we not feeling the impact on the ground?’” He highlighted that many struggle to access basic necessities, such as three meals a day.
Why it Matters
As Zambia approaches a pivotal election, the interplay between Hichilema’s governance, the unresolved legacy of Edgar Lungu, and the demands of an economically strained populace will be crucial in determining the outcome. The political climate reflects deeper societal values and the pressing need for accountability and transparency in leadership. With nearly 8.8 million registered voters also choosing MPs and local councillors in these elections, the decisions made at the polls will resonate far beyond the immediate political landscape, shaping the trajectory of Zambian democracy for years to come.