As Zambia prepares for its upcoming elections, the political landscape is overshadowed by the legacy of former president Edgar Lungu, whose contentious relationship with current president Hakainde Hichilema continues to reverberate. Hichilema, aged 64, is seeking re-election after his dramatic victory in 2021, but the spectre of Lungu’s family and their supporters looms large over the electoral proceedings.
A Political Legacy Haunting Hichilema
The rivalry between Hichilema and Lungu has defined Zambian politics for years, persisting even after Lungu’s death in June 2025. Tensions escalated as the Zambian government attempted to prevent Lungu’s family from conducting a state funeral, a move that was struck down by South Africa’s supreme court in a ruling favouring Lungu’s relatives. This ongoing feud underscores the deep-seated divisions within Zambian society that could affect voter sentiment in the approaching elections.
Hichilema’s main opponent, Brian Mundubile, leads the Tonse Alliance and has vowed to restore dignity to the late president’s legacy by promising to repatriate Lungu’s remains for proper burial. Mundubile, who served as Lungu’s chief whip, has positioned himself as a champion for those discontent with the current administration, promising to address the wounds left by the previous administration’s contentious policies and actions.
Allegations of Authoritarianism
Accusations of authoritarian behaviour during the campaign have arisen, with the Tonse Alliance alleging that Hichilema’s government has engaged in oppressive tactics. Reports indicate that opposition rallies have been disrupted, with 36 members of Mundubile’s campaign team detained amid claims of police bias. Tamika Halwiindi, a coordinator with Transparency International Zambia, highlighted an alarming trend of police interference targeting opposition gatherings, suggesting a concerning shift in the democratic landscape.
Hichilema’s administration has vehemently dismissed these allegations, asserting that the current political climate is far more open than during Lungu’s presidency, when Hichilema himself faced significant repression, including multiple arrests and widespread media shutdowns. An official spokesperson for Hichilema’s United Party for National Development pointed out that the opposition now enjoys greater freedom to campaign across the nation.
Economic Promises Amid Rising Costs
While Hichilema touts economic recovery following a turbulent period of debt default in 2020, many citizens remain sceptical. Zambia’s inflation rate has dropped significantly to 6.5%, down from 24.6% in 2021, and the government has made strides in educational reform by providing free primary and secondary schooling since 2022. However, the reality of rising living costs has led to questions about the tangible benefits of these improvements.
In a bid to connect with younger voters, Hichilema announced a 50% increase in accommodation allowances for university students, a move that drew applause at a recent rally. Yet, concerns linger as many Zambians struggle to afford basic necessities, prompting questions about the effectiveness of the government’s economic policies. Activist Mputa Ngalande highlighted the disconnect felt by citizens, stating, “If we are doing well economically, why are we not feeling the impact on the ground?”
The Road Ahead
With nearly 8.8 million registered voters set to cast their ballots, the elections are not just about choosing a president but also deciding on MPs and local councillors. As the political climate intensifies, Hichilema’s prospects remain favourable, yet the complexities of Zambian electoral politics could pose challenges that affect his re-election bid.
Why it Matters
The upcoming elections in Zambia represent a critical juncture for the nation, poised between a legacy of political strife and the potential for renewed democratic engagement. The interplay between historical grievances and current governance will shape not only the immediate political landscape but also the future trajectory of Zambian democracy. As voters weigh their options, the outcomes will reverberate beyond the ballot box, influencing regional stability and international perceptions of Zambia’s commitment to democratic principles.