Zambia votes: Hichilema seeks second term amid economic discontent
Zambians vote in a presidential election seen as a referendum on Hichilema's economic reforms, with results expected Monday.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema cast his ballot on Thursday in the country's general election, seeking a second term in office. He faces 13 challengers in a vote widely viewed as a judgment on his economic stewardship.
Hichilema, who came to power in 2021 after defeating Edgar Lungu, has campaigned on his record of restructuring Zambia's foreign debt and attracting investment. He argues he inherited a broken economy and needs another five years to create jobs and improve infrastructure.
However, many voters say they have not felt the benefits of these reforms. Unemployment, high food prices, and unreliable electricity supply continue to strain household budgets across the nation.
Around 8 million people are registered to vote in the one-day election, which also includes parliamentary and local council races. Long queues formed outside polling stations in Lusaka, with some voters huddling around fires against the morning chill.
The electoral commission says results are expected by Monday. A candidate must secure more than 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff. European Union observers were present at polling stations in the capital to monitor the process.