Hichilema Favoured to Secure Second Term as Zambia Heads to Polls

By Desmond Nleya

Fourteen candidates are contesting Zambia’s upcoming presidential election, with incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema widely expected to secure a second term.

Among his main challengers is opposition leader Brian Mundubile, who has accused authorities of restricting his party’s campaign activities and giving Hichilema’s United Party for National Development (UPND) an advantage.

Mundubile claims his campaign has faced difficulties obtaining permits, accessing transport and communication equipment, and travelling freely across the country. He also alleges that police have interfered with opposition activities and accuses the ruling party of using violence against its opponents.

“We have not been able to campaign freely,” Mundubile said, arguing that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has failed to take action against alleged violations by the ruling party.

Mundubile, a former lawyer, emerged as a leading opposition figure after several anti-government parties rallied behind his candidacy.

Hichilema, who won the presidency in 2021 after defeating longtime rival Edgar Lungu, is seeking a second term. Despite opposition concerns over the conduct of the campaign, he remains the frontrunner ahead of the vote.

The election is expected to attract significant attention as voters decide whether to give Hichilema another term or back the opposition’s bid for a change in leadership.