President Hakainde Hichilema on Sunday successfully filed his nomination papers to seek re‑election as leader of the United Party for National Development (UPND) ahead of the ruling party’s general conference scheduled for 15 April.
The filing marks a key step in the party’s internal electoral process, which will determine its presidential candidate for the 2026 general elections.
Hichilema arrived at the UPND secretariat in Lusaka’s Rhodes Park accompanied by Vice‑President Mutale Nalumango and senior party officials where he submitted the required documents within the stipulated timeframe.
Party leaders say the nomination process is being conducted in line with the UPND constitution, which allows eligible members to contest positions from ward level up to the presidency.
The April general conference is expected to draw delegates from across the country to elect the party’s leadership and set its strategic direction ahead of the national polls.
Hichilema, who has led the UPND for more than two decades, is widely expected to campaign on his administration’s record, including free education, increased Constituency Development Fund allocations and ongoing economic reforms.
Political observers note that whether Hichilema runs unopposed or faces a challenger at the conference will shape the party’s internal dynamics and its messaging going into the August 2026 elections.
JN/APA