Zambia Votes: Economy at the Heart of Presidential Election

Voters across Zambia lined up before dawn on Thursday to cast their ballots in a presidential election that doubles as a verdict on President Hakainde Hichilema's economic stewardship. With roughly 8 million of the country's 22 million people registered, the one-day vote will also decide members of Parliament and local government councilors.

In Lusaka, long queues formed outside polling stations as voters bundled up against the morning chill. Some gathered around small fires while officials arranged ballot boxes and checked voter lists. European Union election observers were present at a polling station in the capital.

First-time voter Beene Siloka described the experience as a source of pride. "I've casted my votes, and I'm proud. I think I'm happy," he said, adding that he hopes for "greater things for Zambia." Another voter, Granise Chota, said everyone believes they are backing the winning side but acknowledged the wait for official results, which are expected by Monday.

Hichilema, who came to power in 2021, faces 13 challengers, with Brian Mundubile of an opposition alliance seen as his strongest rival. The election is widely viewed as a referendum on the president's handling of the economy. He points to debt restructuring, economic growth, and investor interest as evidence of progress, but many citizens say high food prices, unemployment, and unreliable electricity continue to strain daily life.

Hichilema has asked for another five-year term to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and expand public services. A candidate needs more than 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff.

Security was tightened in the final days of campaigning, with police warning against violence and the spread of false results. Zambia has a history of peaceful transfers of power since multiparty democracy was restored in 1991, and Hichilema's own victory marked the third such transition.