Zambia's president Hichilema wins re-election with big economic promises

What the report says

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has won a second term, according to France24 Africa, after campaigning on his record of economic recovery and a major debt restructuring deal. The outlet said he secured roughly 60% of the vote in Tuesday’s election, defeating his main challenger Brian Mundubile. Hichilema, 64, used his reelection bid to argue that more work remains to expand jobs, lift household opportunities and build on recent economic gains.

France24 Africa reported that since taking office in 2021, Hichilema has overseen a period of debt repair after Zambia defaulted on its obligations the previous year. His government also restored ties with international lenders and drew investment into the copper sector, which remains central to the economy. At the same time, he has faced criticism from opponents and some civil society groups who say poverty and hunger are still widespread and that daily living costs remain high.

The report added that Hichilema’s administration has been accused of becoming less tolerant of dissent, with critics alleging pressure on opposition voices and tighter controls on political space. He has denied that law enforcement is being used to suppress democratic freedoms. The result leaves him under pressure to show that economic stabilization can translate into broader improvement in living standards.