As Zambia approaches a pivotal election, the spectre of former President Edgar Lungu looms large, casting shadows over the campaign of incumbent Hakainde Hichilema. Scheduled for Thursday, the elections are not merely a contest of votes but a battleground for lingering animosities and economic discontent that threaten to unravel Hichilema’s grip on power.
A Bitter Legacy
Hakainde Hichilema, aged 64, is seeking re-election after his resounding victory over Lungu in 2021. However, the animosity between the two has not dissipated even with Lungu’s death in June 2025. The rivalry continues to define political discourse in Zambia, with the late leader’s family and supporters embroiled in a bitter feud with Hichilema’s administration. Tensions reached a boiling point when the government attempted to prevent Lungu’s family from conducting a private burial, fearing Hichilema’s involvement would undermine the dignity of the event. The South African Supreme Court ultimately sided with Lungu’s family, granting them the right to organise the funeral as they saw fit.
The atmosphere is charged, with Hichilema now facing the Tonse Alliance, led by Brian Mundubile, a former chief whip under Lungu. The opposition promises to return Lungu’s body to Zambia, framing the issue as one of national honour and respect. “How death is handled is deeply significant in our culture,” observed Christopher Vandome, a senior research fellow at Chatham House. The handling of Lungu’s memory could prove pivotal in swaying public sentiment.
Allegations of Authoritarianism
Yet beyond the familial quarrels lies a more pressing concern—the allegations of authoritarian behaviour that have emerged against Hichilema’s administration. Opponents accuse the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) of using heavy-handed tactics during the election campaign, including office raids and the detention of 36 opposition members. Hichilema’s team vehemently refutes these claims, pointing to the repression he faced in 2021 when he was arrested multiple times and media outlets were shut down.
“Zambians know what genuine repression looks like,” a UPND spokesperson stated, arguing that today’s opposition operates freely in all ten provinces, with no media censorship. However, Transparency International Zambia reports a troubling trend of police disruptions targeting opposition rallies, raising questions over the fairness of the electoral environment. “The police have been more likely to intervene against opposition events, citing safety concerns,” said Tamika Halwiindi, a coordinator with the organisation.
Economic Promises Amidst Hardship
Hichilema’s administration has touted economic recovery since its ascent to power, with inflation dropping from a staggering 24.6% in 2021 to 6.5% today. The government has also made strides in education, declaring primary and secondary schooling free in 2022. Furthermore, Hichilema recently announced a 50% increase in student accommodation allowances, targeting young voters in a bid to secure their support.
However, the reality for many Zambians remains harsh. While average annual income has seen a modest increase from $1,127 to $1,318, the cost of living has nearly doubled in the same period. Many citizens are left grappling with the stark contrast between economic statistics and their day-to-day struggles. “If things are improving, why don’t we see the benefits?” questioned activist Mputa Ngalande, highlighting the difficulty many face in securing basic necessities, such as regular meals.
The Road Ahead
As nearly 8.8 million registered voters prepare to cast their ballots, the stakes could not be higher. Hichilema’s chances of retaining the presidency appear strong; nevertheless, the spectre of Lungu and the economic concerns of Zambians could deliver unexpected results. The election is not merely a referendum on Hichilema’s leadership but a reflection of a nation grappling with its past while striving for a better future.
Why it Matters
The upcoming elections in Zambia represent a critical juncture in the nation’s political landscape. The ongoing feud surrounding Edgar Lungu’s legacy signifies more than just a personal rivalry; it encapsulates broader issues of governance, respect for democratic processes, and the pressing economic realities facing ordinary citizens. As Hichilema navigates these turbulent waters, the outcome could redefine Zambia’s political future, either reinforcing a new era of leadership or plunging the country back into the chaos of its past.