As Zambia prepares to head to the polls, the spectre of Edgar Lungu, the former president, continues to loom large over the electoral landscape. Current President Hakainde Hichilema, who previously ousted Lungu in a decisive victory in 2021, is now campaigning for a second term amidst ongoing political strife that has escalated even after Lungu’s death in June 2025.
Political Divisions Resurface
Hakainde Hichilema, aged 64, is navigating a complex political environment as he seeks re-election. The campaign is heavily influenced by the contentious relationship between Hichilema and Lungu’s family, a rivalry that has persisted despite Lungu’s passing in South Africa. The Zambian government controversially sought to intervene in Lungu’s burial arrangements, aiming to prevent his family from holding a private funeral without Hichilema’s involvement. However, this action was overturned by South Africa’s Supreme Court, which upheld the family’s wishes, further complicating the political narrative.
In this election cycle, Hichilema faces a formidable challenge from the Tonse Alliance, led by Brian Mundubile, 55, who previously served as the chief whip under Lungu. Mundubile, along with his running mate Makebi Zulu—who acted as the Lungu family’s spokesperson during the burial dispute—has pledged to ensure a dignified return of Lungu’s remains to Zambia, tapping into national sentiments surrounding respect for the deceased.
Allegations of Authoritarianism and Political Freedom
The current electoral climate has also seen accusations from the Tonse Alliance that Hichilema’s administration has resorted to authoritarian tactics, including the intimidation of opposition members and disruptions at campaign events. Reports indicate that police have interrupted opposition rallies, raising concerns regarding the fairness of the electoral process.
Tamika Halwiindi, a coordinator at Transparency International Zambia, noted a pattern of biased enforcement, stating that police actions have disproportionately affected opposition gatherings compared to those of the ruling party. This raises critical questions about the state of democratic freedoms in Zambia under Hichilema’s leadership.
In response to these allegations, Hichilema’s representatives have vehemently denied any wrongdoing, contrasting the current political climate with the repression experienced during Lungu’s regime. They assert that the opposition is granted significantly more freedom to campaign than was the case in previous elections, when Hichilema himself faced repeated arrests and media censorship.
Economic Progress and Challenges Ahead
Zambia’s economic landscape has shown signs of recovery following a severe crisis that culminated in a debt default in 2020. Inflation has stabilised at 6.5%, a stark contrast to the 24.6% recorded in July 2021. Furthermore, Hichilema’s administration has made strides in education, introducing free primary and secondary schooling in 2022, which has been well-received by the populace.
In a bid to appeal to younger voters, Hichilema recently announced a 50% increase in accommodation allowances for university students, aiming to bolster his support among this demographic. However, despite these positive economic indicators, many citizens report feeling the burden of rising living costs, which have surged alongside economic growth.
Mputa Ngalande from the Fight Inequality Alliance remarked on the disconnect between economic statistics and everyday realities, noting that many Zambians struggle to access basic necessities such as food. “If we are doing well economically, why are we not feeling the impact on the ground?” he questioned, highlighting the challenges Hichilema faces as he seeks to secure another term.
Why it Matters
The upcoming elections in Zambia are critical not only for the country’s political future but also for the broader regional context in Southern Africa. As Hichilema navigates the complexities of his presidency, the interplay of political rivalry, allegations of authoritarianism, and economic realities will shape the electoral outcome. The decisions made in the coming days have the potential to redefine Zambia’s democratic landscape and influence governance in the region, making it essential that the electoral process is conducted with integrity and respect for the voices of all Zambians.