Key facts
- Zambia will hold a presidential election in August.
- President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking re-election.
- Opposition leader Brian Mundubile is Hichilema's main challenger.
- The election is largely a referendum on Hichilema's economic performance.
- Zambia's economy has recovered from a debt default, supported by copper prices.
- Critics allege Hichilema's administration has restricted political dissent and opposition campaigning.
Zambia is preparing for a presidential election in August, with incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema favored to win a second term but facing a challenge from opposition leader Brian Mundubile. The election is largely seen as a referendum on Hichilema's economic policies since he took office in 2021, inheriting a nation that had defaulted on its sovereign debt.
Africa's second-largest copper producer has experienced an economic rebound, aided by high copper prices and debt restructuring. However, many citizens continue to struggle with the cost of living, an issue the opposition plans to leverage. Annual inflation has decreased to its lowest point in over eight years, reaching 6.5% in June, reflecting the country's economic recovery.
Despite the positive economic indicators, critics have raised concerns about growing repression under Hichilema's administration. The opposition accuses the president of restricting their ability to campaign and suppressing political dissent, allegations Hichilema denies. Specific concerns include a new cybercrimes law introduced in 2025, which civil society groups fear could stifle online speech, and constitutional changes expanding parliament, which critics believe may favor Hichilema's party.
Mundubile, a lawyer and former member of parliament, has emerged as a late contender after a fractured opposition united behind him. He argues that the government's economic achievements have not translated into improved lives for ordinary Zambians, questioning the boast of increased foreign reserves while people are hungry.
Hichilema, a 64-year-old businessman, won a landslide victory in 2021. He benefits from incumbency, including access to state resources for campaigning across the vast country. A survey conducted before Mundubile's campaign launch indicated that 51% of respondents expected a free and fair election and 55% planned to vote for Hichilema. However, political analysts caution against dismissing the opposition's late mobilization efforts.