Voting is underway in Zambia’s general elections where President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term amid economic challenges and rising frustration over the cost of living.
Polls opened at 6 am local time (0400 GMT) and are scheduled to close at 6 pm, with results expected Monday, according to the Electoral Commission of Zambia.
Reports from across the country indicated long queues at most polling stations as voters turned out early.
Zambians are choosing a president, members of parliament and local government councillors during the one-day poll.
Hichilema faces stiff challenge from more than 10 other candidates who are vying for the right to occupy State House for the next five years.
His main challenger is Brian Mundubile, a veteran parliamentarian making his first presidential bid, heading an opposition alliance backed by supporters of former president Edgar Lungu.
According to Zambia’s electoral laws, a run‑off must be held within 37 days if no candidate secures more than 50 percent of the presidential vote.
Hichilema, who has led the copper‑rich nation since 2021, is running on his economic record after steering Zambia through debt restructuring following its 2020 sovereign default.
The campaign period was marked by allegations of political repression, which the government denies.
The outcome of the vote will determine whether Hichilema consolidates his leadership or faces a run‑off against a united opposition.
JN/APA