Zambia’s Hichilema begins second term amid disputed vote and arrests

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Published: 2026-09-02T19:01:09.818Z • Permanent link

Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema began his second term in office on January 24, 2023, amidst controversy and unrest following disputed elections. Hichilema, who secured 57.2% of the vote, was declared the winner by the Zambia Electoral Commission. However, his main challenger, Andrea Kavango, claimed that the election was marred by irregularities and alleged vote-rigging by Hichilema's party, the United National Independence Party (UNIP).

The disputed outcome has sparked widespread protests and arrests, with reports of violence and intimidation against opposition supporters. According to the Zambia Human Rights Commission, at least 15 people have been injured, and several arrests have been made. The commission has also accused the government of failing to protect citizens' rights and to ensure a free and fair election.

Hichilema's inauguration ceremony was attended by a number of high-ranking government officials, including the Vice President, Mutale Mulieta Nalumango, and the Minister of Home Affairs, Brian Mushanga. The ceremony was also attended by representatives from several international organizations, including the European Union and the United States.

The disputed election in Zambia has significant implications for the country's economic and political stability. Zambia is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world to climate change, and the government's inability to address the crisis has led to widespread poverty and food insecurity. The country's economy is heavily reliant on copper exports, which have been affected by the global downturn in the mining industry.

The disputed election also raises concerns about the country's democratic institutions and the rule of law. Zambia has a reputation for being one of the most stable countries in the region, but the current situation has cast doubt on the country's ability to hold free and fair elections. The country's research communities and academic institutions have also been affected, with many experts expressing concern about the impact of the disputed election on the country's development prospects.

The disputed election in Zambia also has implications for the region as a whole. The country is a key player in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and has played an important role in regional economic integration efforts. The current situation has raised concerns about the country's ability to contribute to regional stability and development.