Zambia Heads to the Polls with Eyes on the Future
According to The Guardian, Zambians headed to the polls on Thursday, August 13, 2026 in a decisive electoral contest. President Hakainde Hichilema, aged 64, seeks his second term leading the southern African nation, following his historic landslide victory over his perennial rival, Edgar Lungu, in the 2021 elections.
The Political Legacy of Edgar Lungu
Zambian politics remains deeply influenced by the old rivalry between Hichilema and Lungu. Lungu passed away in South Africa in June 2025, but the tension persisted even after his death. Hichilema's government initially attempted to hold a state funeral, leading to a legal dispute. Finally, in June 2026, the Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa ruled in favor of Lungu's family, allowing them to decide on the burial arrangements.
In this election, Hichilema faces the Tonse Alliance, an opposition coalition led by Brian Mundubile (55 years old), who served as government chief under Lungu's administration. Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, have promised to bring Lungu's remains back to Zambia for a dignified burial—a highly relevant aspect in a culture where respect for the deceased is paramount.
Democracy and Campaign Freedom
The Tonse Alliance has denounced authoritarian tactics during the campaign, including raids and the arrest of 36 members of Mundubile's team. However, the president's team defends its democratic track record, recalling the repression Hichilema faced in 2021, when he was arrested 15 times and the internet was cut on election day.
The current reality shows a more open landscape: the opposition campaigns freely in all 10 provinces of the country, no media outlets have been shut down, and radio airwaves are open, as highlighted by the United Party for National Development. Although organizations like Transparency International Zambia monitor some incidents of police interruptions, the general climate reflects democratic progress.
A Recovering Economy and the Attraction of Investments
Zambia's economic outlook shows encouraging signs. Since the 2020 crisis, when the country defaulted on its debts under Lungu's mandate, the economy has stabilized significantly. The current annual inflation rate is 6.5%, a substantial improvement from the 24.6% recorded in July 2021. Furthermore, in 2022, the government implemented free primary and secondary education, a milestone for social development.
Zambia is also attracting international investment thanks to its vast copper deposits. Copper is a crucial material for developing green technologies and the global energy transition, making the country a strategic player in the modern economy.
Youth Boost
In a nod to young voters, Hichilema announced a 50% increase in the accommodation subsidy for university students, effective immediately, motivating the student population.
The Cost of Living Challenge
The average annual income rose from $1,127 to $1,318 between 2021 and 2025. Although the economy is growing, the challenge of translating these numbers into a tangible improvement in households' daily lives remains a priority.
The Future of 8.8 Million Voters
With almost 8.8 million registered voters who will also elect lawmakers and local councilors, these elections represent a moment of great hope and definition. Economic stabilization, investment in education, and democratic consolidation are the pillars upon which Zambia is building its path toward a prosperous future for all its citizens.