As Zambians prepare to head to the polls, the spectre of former President Edgar Lungu looms large over the upcoming elections. Current President Hakainde Hichilema, 64, is vying for a second term, having triumphed over Lungu in a decisive victory in 2021. However, the rivalry between the two leaders, intensified by Lungu’s controversial passing in June 2025, continues to shape the political landscape and influence the electorate’s sentiments.
The Lingering Feud
The political rivalry between Hichilema and Lungu has persisted beyond Lungu’s death, creating a complex backdrop for this election cycle. Following Lungu’s demise in South Africa, a legal battle ensued regarding his funeral, with the Zambian government attempting to block Lungu’s family from conducting a private burial. Ultimately, the South African Supreme Court sided with Lungu’s family, affirming their right to hold a state funeral without Hichilema officiating—a ruling that has only fuelled ongoing tensions.
Hichilema’s main opponent in this election, Brian Mundubile, 55, leads the Tonse Alliance, a coalition of opposition parties. Mundubile, formerly a government chief whip under Lungu, and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, who represented the Lungu family during the burial disputes, have pledged to return Lungu’s remains to Zambia for a proper burial. This commitment resonates deeply in Zambian culture, where respect for the deceased is paramount. Christopher Vandome, a senior research fellow at Chatham House, notes that even Hichilema’s supporters wish to see dignity afforded to those who have passed.
Election Controversies
Complicating Hichilema’s campaign are allegations from the Tonse Alliance that he is resorting to authoritarian tactics, including the disruption of opposition events and the detention of 36 members of Mundubile’s team. Hichilema’s administration vehemently denies these accusations, asserting that Zambians are well aware of the true nature of repression, particularly given Hichilema’s own experiences of being arrested 15 times during Lungu’s presidency.
While there is a semblance of freedom in campaigning, incidents of police interference at opposition rallies have been documented. Tamika Halwiindi, from Transparency International Zambia, highlighted that police often cite safety concerns, with these disruptions disproportionately affecting opposition gatherings. Activists have also reported that peaceful protests have been met with hostility, demonstrating a troubling pattern of curtailing dissent.
Economic Landscape
Despite the political turbulence, Zambia’s economy has shown signs of recovery since the severe crisis that resulted from a debt default in 2020. Inflation has significantly decreased, now standing at 6.5% compared to the staggering 24.6% in July 2021. Furthermore, the government’s decision to make primary and secondary education free in 2022 has been a notable achievement under Hichilema’s leadership.
International interest in Zambia has also grown, particularly due to its substantial copper reserves, which are increasingly vital for green technologies. In a bid to engage younger voters, Hichilema announced a 50% increase in accommodation allowances for university students, an initiative that was met with enthusiasm.
However, the economic situation remains precarious for many Zambians. Although the average annual income has risen from $1,127 to $1,318 between 2021 and 2025, the cost of living has surged, leaving citizens questioning the tangible benefits of economic progress. Activist Mputa Ngalande voiced the frustrations felt by many, stating, “If we are doing well economically, why are we not feeling impact on the ground?” This sentiment reflects a growing disconnect between government statistics and the everyday realities faced by the populace, particularly in accessing basic necessities like food.
Why it Matters
The upcoming elections in Zambia are not just a referendum on Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership; they represent a critical juncture for the nation’s democratic health and economic future. With a complex web of political rivalries, cultural expectations around mourning, and a populace grappling with economic challenges, the outcome will determine not only Hichilema’s fate but also the trajectory of Zambian democracy. As nearly 8.8 million registered voters prepare to cast their ballots, the stakes have never been higher, underscoring the pressing need for transparency, respect, and genuine engagement in the political process.