Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has congratulated Zambian counterpart Hakainde Hichilema over his re-election for a second five-year term.
Hichilema secured over 60 percent of the vote and has been confirmed as the winner of Zambia’s presidential vote.
”On behalf of the government and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your re-election as the President of the Republic of Zambia” Presidet Samia said in a statement shortly after the election winner was confirmed.
”I am looking forward to continuing working with you in strengthening the deep, historical and fraternal bonds between Tanzania and Zambia for the benefits of our people and our two nations” her statement added.
Final results showed Hichilema of the United Party for National Development secured 2,965,326 votes, or 61.5 percent, defeating Brian Mundubile of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity, who polled 1,856,217 votes, or 38.5 percent.
The 13 August general election saw Zambians vote for president, parliament and local government representatives amid heightened political tensions.
The electoral commission temporarily suspended counting on 14 August after security incidents but later resumed the process.
Hichilema, who first took office in 2021, pledged to focus his second term on economic growth, job creation, investment and tackling the cost of living. He called for peace and unity following the announcement.
Mundubile urged supporters to remain calm, reject violence and pursue grievances through lawful means, stressing the need for national cohesion across Zambia’s regions.
WN/as/APA