# Hichilema sworn in for second term amid treason charges

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/zambia-modifies-2026-election-nomination-fees-and-deadlines-as-candidate-numbers-grow
> Updated: 2026-09-04T08:49:31.000Z. Sources: 168. Developments: 49.

President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second five-year term following the August 13 election, in which he secured approximately 60 percent of the vote. The inauguration ceremony took place on September 1, 2026, at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka, attended by regional leaders including Kenyan President William Ruto and representatives from Zimbabwe and Botswana.

The transition is occurring under intense political tension. Main opposition leader Brian Mundubile, who received 38 percent of the vote, continues to reject the results, alleging electoral fraud and manipulation. Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, have been arrested and charged with treason following a security raid in Lusaka that reportedly resulted in the death of a former minister. Mundubile was unable to file a formal legal challenge because the courts were closed on the final day for objections.

International scrutiny has intensified. The European Union noted procedural irregularities, specifically discrepancies between digital records and paper documents. In his inauguration address, Hichilema emphasized national stability and invited the opposition to collaborate on the ‘Grow Zambia’ agenda, focusing on mining, agriculture, and energy.

Diplomatic reactions in the United States have been divided. While the Trump administration appears to be warming to the government—evidenced by US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia attending the inauguration—Democratic lawmakers have expressed alarm. Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Representative Gregory Meeks cited concerns regarding potential democratic backsliding, post-election violence, and the need for transparency regarding fatal shootings and electoral results.

## Claims

- Approximately 8.7 million people are registered to vote in the election. (disputed by 10 sources)
- Hakainde Hichilema has secured approximately 58.86 percent of the valid votes in the early count. (disputed by 10 sources)
- Official election results are expected to be announced on Monday. (disputed by 6 sources)
- President Hakainde Hichilema is running for a second term. (corroborated by 20 sources)
- Voters are facing high costs of living, including food prices and unstable electricity supplies. (corroborated by 16 sources)
- Brian Mundubile received approximately 38 to 39 percent of the valid votes. (corroborated by 16 sources)
- Zambian authorities closed top courts on August 24, 2026. (corroborated by 14 sources)
- A presidential candidate must receive more than 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff. (corroborated by 13 sources)
- The National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity alleged that armed personnel raided Brian Mundubile’s home in Lusaka. (corroborated by 11 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-04: Hakainde Hichilema begins second term in Zambia amid shifting US relations

President Hakainde Hichilema begins a second term in Zambia focused on economic growth, while the US administration shows signs of warming to his leadership despite Democratic concerns over democratic backslid.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hakainde-hichilema-begins-second-term-in-zambia-amid-shifting-us-relations

### 2026-09-02: Hakainde Hichilema sworn in for second term in Zambia

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second term following a disputed election. Opposition leader Brian Mundubile faces treason charges amid allegations of electoral irregularities.

20 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-president-hakainde-hichilema-begins-second-term

### 2026-08-30: Zambia: President Hichilema sworn in for second term amid political tension

President Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in for a second term in Zambia on September 1, 2026, amid allegations of election fraud and treason charges against opposition leader Brian Mundubile.

19 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hakainde-hichilema-to-be-inaugurated-for-second-term-in-zambia-1

### 2026-08-28: Zambia's ECZ orders fresh Mandevu election after results centre attack

The Electoral Commission of Zambia has ordered a fresh parliamentary election in Mandevu Constituency after thieves attacked a results centre, destroyed transmission kits, and stole election documents.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-ecz-orders-fresh-mandevu-election-after-results-centre-attack

### 2026-08-28: Zambian candidates file High Court petitions to challenge election results

Multiple candidates in Zambia are challenging the results of the August 13 general election in at least six constituencies, citing allegations of bribery, violence, and procedural irregularities.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambian-candidates-file-high-court-petitions-to-challenge-election-results

### 2026-08-27: Hakainde Hichilema to be inaugurated for second term in Zambia

President Hakainde Hichilema is set to be inaugurated for a second term on September 1, 2026, with the 2027 national budget due within 90 days of his swearing-in.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hakainde-hichilema-to-be-inaugurated-for-second-term-in-zambia

### 2026-08-26: Zambia courts reopen after shutdown during election petition deadline

Zambian courts have reopened after a shutdown during the presidential election petition deadline. While officials cited security threats, critics allege the closure blocked opposition challenges.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-courts-reopen-after-shutdown-during-election-petition-deadline

### 2026-08-24: Zambia's Hakainde Hichilema wins reelection amid controversy

President Hakainde Hichilema has secured a second term in Zambia, but the election faces scrutiny from the EU and Commonwealth over vote-counting irregularities and the arrest of opposition members.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-hakainde-hichilema-wins-reelection-amid-controversy

### 2026-08-24: Zambia closes top courts on final day for election petition deadline

Zambia closed its top courts on the final day for filing presidential election challenges, citing security reasons. While the judiciary reported no formal petition by the deadline, a challenge was sent via the'

18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-courts-close-as-mundubile-election-petition-deadline-nears

### 2026-08-21: Zambia navigates post-election tensions and calls for stability

Zambia faces post-election tensions as political leaders debate whether to petition presidential results or pursue dialogue and reconciliation to maintain national stability.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-navigates-post-election-tensions-and-calls-for-stability

### 2026-08-21: Hakainde Hichilema re-elected as President of Zambia

Hakainde Hichilema has been re-elected as President of Zambia, securing a first-round victory. Indian PM Narendra Modi congratulated him, pledging to strengthen the partnership between the two nations.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hakainde-hichilema-re-elected-as-president-of-zambia

### 2026-08-19: Brian Mundubile to challenge Zambia election results in court

Zambian opposition leader Brian Mundubile will challenge President Hakainde Hichilema’s election victory in court, alleging serious irregularities in the vote count and ballot security.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/brian-mundubile-to-challenge-zambia-election-results-in-court

### 2026-08-18: Zambia presidential election faces fraud allegations and unrest

Zambia’s presidential election faces credibility crises following allegations of fraud, violence, and significant discrepancies between presidential and parliamentary vote counts.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-presidential-election-faces-fraud-allegations-and-unrest

### 2026-08-18: Zambia: Hakainde Hichilema re-elected amid opposition protests

President Hakainde Hichilema has won re-election in Zambia with approximately 60% of the vote, amid opposition claims of fraud, reports of political arrests, and calls for an independent investigation.

15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hakainde-hichilema-re-elected-president-of-zambia-1

### 2026-08-16: Hakainde Hichilema wins re-election as Zambia president

President Hakainde Hichilema has won re-election in Zambia with approximately 60% of the vote, amid allegations of fraud, opposition arrests, and reports of violence from international observers.

62 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hakainde-hichilema-leads-zambia-election-with-55-of-votes

### 2026-08-14: Zambia election counting suspended following violence and ballot theft

Zambia's Electoral Commission suspended vote counting on August 14, 2026, due to violence and ballot theft. While counting has resumed, early results show Hakainde Hichilema leading amid opposition claims of a를

17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-resumes-vote-counting-after-security-suspension

### 2026-08-12: Zambia suspends election vote count following reports of violence

Zambia's electoral commission has suspended the nationwide vote count for the general election following reports of violence and the theft of marked ballot papers, amid a tight race for the presidency.

55 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-holds-general-elections-amid-economic-and-political-tensions

### 2026-08-10: Zambia holds general elections amid economic tests and election plot arrests

Zambia holds general elections on August 13, 2026, with President Hichilema seeking re-election amid economic reforms and high living costs. Security agencies have arrested suspects for an alleged election plot

18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-holds-general-elections-on-august-13

### 2026-08-08: Zambia political landscape faces major realignment ahead of August elections

Democratic Progress Party leader Antonio Mwanza warns that Zambia's upcoming August 13 elections are unpredictable, noting rising dissatisfaction with the UPND government and potential political realignment.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-political-landscape-faces-major-realignment-ahead-of-august-elections

### 2026-08-08: Zambia prepares for August 13 general elections amid political tension

Zambia heads to general elections on August 13, 2026. President Hakainde Hichilema seeks re-election amid warnings from Amnesty International regarding democratic regression and opposition crackdowns.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-prepares-for-general-elections-on-august-13

### 2026-08-07: Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema rallies in Mufumbwe and faces internal dissent ahead of elections

President Hakainde Hichilema campaigned in Mufumbwe, promising jobs, infrastructure and a honey plant, while commentator Brian Hapunda noted his appointees' silence, hinting at possible election defeat and UPND

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-president-hakainde-hichilema-rallies-in-mufumbwe-and-faces-internal-dissent-ahead-of-election

### 2026-08-07: Zambia Archbishop Alick Banda decries surge in political violence before Aug 13 elections

Archbishop Alick Banda of Lusaka warned of escalating political violence ahead of Zambia's Aug 13, 2026 election, urging impartial police action and leaders to condemn the attacks on democracy.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-archbishop-alick-banda-decries-surge-in-political-violence-before-aug-13-elections

### 2026-08-04: Zambia's 2026 Election Peace Initiative Backed by Catholic Bishops and Church Bodies

Zambia’s 2026 election peace drive sees Catholic bishops, evangelical and council churches sign a national pledge, urge non‑violence, and train leaders amid reported election‑related abuse.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-2026-election-peace-initiative-backed-by-catholic-bishops-and-church-bodies

### 2026-08-02: Zambia's 2026 Election Faces Debt, Power Crisis and Assassination Rumors

Zambia's 2026 election is marked by debt restructuring, costly power imports, potential parliamentary gridlock, and rumors of an assassination plot against rival Brian Mundubile.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-2026-election-faces-debt-power-crisis-and-assassination-rumors

### 2026-08-01: Zambia President Hichilema Praised as UNZA Students March to State House

Zambia’s President Hichilema was thanked by UNZA students for campus sanitation and meal allowance upgrades, then faced a march demanding higher accommodation allowances ahead of the Aug 13 election.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-president-hichilema-praised-as-unza-students-march-to-state-house

### 2026-07-31: Zambian Candidate Brian Mundubile Accuses Leader of Holding 800 Mining Licences and Demands Release of National Survey

Zambian candidate Brian Mundubile says one person holds 800 mining licences and that a taxpayer‑funded mineral survey is being hidden, urging President Hichilema to release it and promising licence cancelations

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambian-candidate-brian-mundubile-accuses-leader-of-holding-800-mining-licences-and-demands-release-

### 2026-07-28: Zambia's 2026 Election Campaign Intensifies Amid Candidate Withdrawals

Zambia’s presidential hopefuls Mundubile and Zulu rally in North‑Western Province promising mining reforms, while four candidates withdraw from the race, shrinking party footprints ahead of the Aug 13 election.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-2026-election-campaign-intensifies-amid-candidate-withdrawals

### 2026-07-27: Zambia Prepares for 2026 General Election with SADC and EU Observation Missions

SADC and EU observer missions are training and assessing Zambia’s 2026 general election, with SADC observers preparing in Lusaka and EU delegates evaluating readiness in Muchinga Province.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-prepares-for-2026-general-election-with-sadc-and-eu-observation-missions

### 2026-07-27: Zambia election campaign: Leaders urge voters to shun PF revival and recycled party options

Zambia's election campaign sees Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe urging voters to reject UPND and Tonse Alliance, while President Hakainde Hichilema warns against reviving the PF and backing inexperienced c‑

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-election-campaign-leaders-urge-voters-to-shun-pf-revival-and-recycled-party-options

### 2026-07-26: Zambia's Copperbelt rally urges voters ahead of Aug 13 election

Brian Mundubile and MP Stephen Kampyongo rallied in Chingola, urging voters to support change and turn out in large numbers for Zambia's Aug 13 election.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-copperbelt-rally-urges-voters-ahead-of-aug-13-election

### 2026-07-23: Zambia Election: Hichilema Seeks Growth as Opposition Faces Defeat

Zambia's Aug 13 election sees incumbent President Hichilema expected to win, dismissing opposition leaders while investors watch for a new IMF programme and mining reforms.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-election-hichilema-seeks-growth-as-opposition-faces-defeat

### 2026-07-20: Zambian opposition candidate Brian Mundubile attacks President Hichilema ahead of election

Zambian opposition leader Brian Mundubile blames President Hichilema for neglecting the people, proposes youth‑ownership programmes, and trails slightly behind in a non‑scientific online poll.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambian-opposition-candidate-brian-mundubile-attacks-president-hichilema-ahead-of-election

### 2026-07-16: Zambia Catholic Bishops Call for Peace Ahead of General Elections

Zambian Catholic bishops warned against election‑time violence, urging voters to choose leaders who protect rights and emphasizing peaceful, democratic participation ahead of the Aug 13 polls.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-catholic-bishops-call-for-peace-ahead-of-general-elections

### 2026-07-15: EU Observation Mission Deploys to Zambia Ahead of August 2026 General Election

The EU Election Observation Mission has arrived in Zambia to assess preparations for the 13 August 2026 general election, while opposition candidate Brian Mundubile calls for expanded international monitoring.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/eu-observation-mission-deploys-to-zambia-ahead-of-august-2026-general-election

### 2026-07-08: Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema campaigns for re‑election as August vote tests his economic record

Zambia’s Aug 13 election pits incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema against challenger Brian Mundubile, with voters assessing his post‑debt economic recovery, alleged repression and regional support.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-election-set-to-test-president-hichilemas-economic-record

### 2026-07-05: Zambia opposition rally in Kasama underscores tight race ahead of Aug 2026 election

Zambia's opposition rallied in Kasama as Mundubile’s Tonse Alliance seeks a united front before the Aug 2026 election, while analysis shows the alliance must win key provinces to meet the vote threshold.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-opposition-rally-in-kasama-underscores-tight-race-ahead-of-aug-2026-election

### 2026-07-05: Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema urges voters to choose peace in pre‑election rallies

President Hakainde Hichilema campaigned across Zambia, showcasing development gains and urging voters to back UPND in the Aug 13 election to maintain peace and avoid a return to violence.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-president-hakainde-hichilema-urges-voters-to-choose-peace-in-preelection-rallies

### 2026-07-03: Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema campaigns for re‑election ahead of August 13 vote

President Hakainde Hichilema campaigns for a second term, touting development gains and urging peace, as senior chiefs endorse him and the opposition remains fragmented ahead of Zambia’s Aug 13 election; the EC

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-president-hakainde-hichilema-rallies-support-ahead-of-2026-general-election

### 2026-06-30: Zambia opposition candidate Brian Mundubile pledges burial of former President Edgar Lungu if elected

Zambia’s opposition candidate Brian Mundubile promises to arrange former President Edgar Lungu’s burial in Zambia if his Tonse Alliance wins the Aug 13, 2026 election, amid an ongoing dispute over the late ex‑p

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-opposition-candidate-brian-mundubile-pledges-burial-of-former-president-edgar-lungu-if-electe

### 2026-06-28: Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema launches re‑election campaign at Heroes Stadium

Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema launched his re‑election campaign at Heroes Stadium, defending his economic record, attacking opposition candidates, and featuring a large, youth‑filled rally with music.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-president-hakainde-hichilema-launches-reelection-campaign-at-heroes-stadium

### 2026-06-23: Zambia's Brian Mundubile Begins Multi-Province Campaign Tour Ahead of 2026 Election

Zambia opposition candidate Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu began a five‑day campaign tour of Eastern Province on 24 June, then moving through Muchinga, Northern and Luapula provinces as part of a

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-brian-mundubile-begins-multi-province-campaign-tour-ahead-of-2026-election

### 2026-06-22: Zambia Electoral Commission enforces campaign timetable and reprimands candidate

Zambia’s Electoral Commission censured candidate Joseph Chilinda for violating the campaign schedule and, via Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis, defended the timetable as a measure for orderly, fair elections ahead

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-electoral-commission-enforces-campaign-timetable-and-reprimands-candidate

### 2026-06-20: Zambia Law Association challenges ECZ presidential campaign timetable

Zambia’s Law Association urges the electoral commission to halt an unconsulted presidential campaign timetable, citing constitutional freedoms and the need for lawful, proportional measures.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-law-association-challenges-ecz-presidential-campaign-timetable

### 2026-06-20: Zambia's Brian Mundubile projected to secure over 70% in August 2026 presidential election

Governance experts predict Zambia's opposition candidate Brian Mundubile will win the August 2026 presidential election in the first round with over 70% of votes, reflecting broad dissatisfaction with the UPND.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-brian-mundubile-projected-to-secure-over-70-in-august-2026-presidential-election

### 2026-06-19: Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema Faces Eligibility Challenge in Constitutional Court

Zambia’s Constitutional Court heard a petition challenging President Hichilema’s 2026 election eligibility, with the Attorney General urging dismissal and both sides presenting legal arguments.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambias-president-hakainde-hichilema-faces-eligibility-challenge-in-constitutional-court

### 2026-06-11: Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema pledges jobs and lauds free education in new manifesto

Zambia's President Hichilema unveiled a manifesto promising jobs and economic targets, while former minister Dora Siliya praised the free‑education policy for helping poor families.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-president-hakainde-hichilema-pledges-jobs-and-lauds-free-education-in-new-manifesto

### 2026-05-23: Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema Secures 2026 Nomination, Urges Peace

President Hakainde Hichilema and VP Mutale Nalumango secured Zambia's 2026 election nomination, pledging unity and peace, as police arrested 12 people for potential unrest during mayoral filings.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-president-hakainde-hichilema-secures-2026-nomination-urges-peace

### 2026-05-19: Zambia Extends Election Nomination Deadlines as Candidates Line Up for 2026 Vote

Zambia's ECZ extends nomination deadlines as candidates, including Dr. Silumbe and Brian Mundubile, file for the 2026 election.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-extends-election-nomination-deadlines-as-candidates-line-up-for-2026-vote

### 2026-05-06: Zambia lowers 2026 election nomination fees as opposition field fragments

Zambia lowers 2026 election nomination fees for youth, women and disabled while over 25 presidential hopefuls fragment the opposition.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zambia-lowers-2026-election-nomination-fees-as-opposition-field-fragments

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Cite as: Hichilema sworn in for second term amid treason charges. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/zambia-modifies-2026-election-nomination-fees-and-deadlines-as-candidate-numbers-grow