Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema campaigns for re‑election ahead of August 13 vote

President Hakainde Hichilema has intensified his campaign for a second term, urging voters in Kalabo, Kaoma and the Western Province to back the United Party for National Development (UPND) and warning that the August 13 election is a choice between continued progress and a return to past instability. He highlighted achievements such as free education, an expanded Constituency Development Fund and infrastructure projects, and called for peace and unity.

Senior chiefs in the Eastern Province publicly endorsed Hichilema, citing his development record and the importance of maintaining stability. At the same time, the opposition remains fragmented: the Electoral Commission has cleared 26 presidential candidates, with the Tonse Alliance and the People’s Pact fielding separate contenders, while more than 180 independents are also on the ballot.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia has suspended campaign activities of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRP‑UP) in Kaputa after violent incidents that resulted in a death. Hichilema also warned voters not to restore the former Patriotic Front (PF) to power, describing its past governance as damaging to the economy and security.