Zambia, strategic for its copper reserves, votes in its eighth general elections

Zambia is holding its eighth general election on August 12, with incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema vying for a second term. The nation, a significant global copper producer, plays a strategic role in the ongoing energy transition, making its political stability a point of international interest.

Approximately 8.7 million voters are eligible to cast ballots at over 13,500 polling stations across the country. The election will determine the next head of state, the composition of the National Assembly, and local governments. This marks the eighth general election since Zambia returned to multi-party democracy.

While Hichilema, representing the United Party for National Development (UPND), initially appeared set for an easy victory, the opposition landscape has shifted. A coalition of opposition parties, unified following the death of former President Edgar Lungu, now presents a formidable challenge. The leading contender against Hichilema is reportedly Brian Mundibile, a lawyer and former ally of Lungu, leading the Tonse Pamodzi Alliance.

President Hichilema is campaigning on his economic management, particularly the March 2024 agreement to restructure over $3.5 billion in Eurobonds, a significant achievement after Zambia became the first African nation to default during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, critics point to persistent high living costs, unemployment, and energy shortages, with over 70% of the population living below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. Civil society groups and UN experts have also raised concerns about an increasingly hostile environment for opposition, dissent, and journalists, citing the use of cyber laws and sedition charges.

The opposition coalition has also contested proposed constitutional changes that would increase the number of parliamentary seats and constituencies, alleging they favor the ruling party. The election outcome remains uncertain as Zambia navigates economic recovery and political competition.

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Lusaka, August 12 (EFE).- Zambians will go to the polls this Thursday in a general election in which President Hakainde Hichilema hopes to be re-elected for a second term at the head of Zambia, a country strategic in the energy transition for being one of the largest copper producers in the world.