President Hakainde Hichilema declared winner of Zambian presidential election
The Electoral Commission of Zambia officially announced early Tuesday, August 18, 2026, that incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema has been reelected for a second five-year term. Hichilema secured over 51% of the vote, defeating opposition leader Brian Mundubile. The election process saw significant tensions, including the suspension of vote counting on Friday due to security concerns and the arrest of several opposition figures. Hichilema’s victory provides a mandate for his ongoing economic recovery and debt restructuring programs.