Key facts
- Zambia is holding a general election where President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term.
- Hichilema's government has restructured over $12 billion in sovereign debt and stabilized the currency.
- The president aims to triple copper output to 3 million metric tons annually by 2031.
- Brian Mundubile is identified as Hichilema's main challenger.
- Concerns persist regarding high food and energy costs for Zambian citizens.
- Zambia's critical mineral resources, including copper and cobalt, are of significant interest to China and the U.S.
Zambia is holding a general election to determine if President Hakainde Hichilema will secure a second term, following a period of economic recovery and debt restructuring. Hichilema, who won the presidency in 2021 after several previous attempts, has focused on stabilizing the economy, reducing inflation, and improving the currency's value. A key aspect of his economic plan is to significantly boost copper production, a critical mineral vital for electronics and electric vehicles, aiming to triple output by 2031.
Despite macroeconomic improvements, many ordinary Zambians are still grappling with high food and energy costs. Critics argue that the benefits of the economic recovery have not yet trickled down to the general population. Hichilema has pledged further development initiatives, including infrastructure projects and job creation, while campaigning.
The election features Hichilema against a field of other candidates, with Brian Mundubile, leader of the Tonse Alliance, identified as his most significant challenger. The opposition has accused Hichilema's government of politically motivated actions, such as a raid on their offices, to disrupt campaigning.
Zambia, a nation rich in critical minerals like copper and cobalt, has attracted substantial investment from China, which is the largest foreign investor. The U.S. has also expressed interest in these minerals, though Zambia has raised concerns about the U.S. potentially linking access to critical minerals with a proposed health deal.
The election process requires a candidate to secure over 50% of the vote to win outright, with the possibility of a runoff if no candidate achieves this majority. Voters will also elect members of Parliament and local councilors.