Polls open in Zambia presidential election as economic reforms tested
Summary
Zambia has started voting in its presidential election, where current President Hakainde Hichilema seeks a second term. The election focuses on economic challenges, including high living costs and job creation, with results expected by August 17.Key Facts
- Voting began at 6 am local time and will last 12 hours.
- About 8.7 million people are registered to vote in Zambia’s 22 million population.
- President Hichilema’s government has worked on economic reforms to lower inflation and strengthen the currency.
- Over 70% of Zambians live on less than $3 a day, with high food and energy costs remaining a worry.
- Unemployment in Zambia is around 10 percent.
- Hichilema won the presidency in 2021 after several attempts and focuses on job creation and infrastructure projects.
- His main opponent is Brian Mundubile, a former minister representing a new opposition party linked to the previous ruling party.
- Voters will also choose representatives for an expanded parliament with 226 seats, up from 156.
- Results need a candidate to win over 50% of the vote to avoid a second round.
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