Hakainde Hichilema Wins Second Term in Zambia Election

LUSAKA, Zambia --- August 18, 2026 --- Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema has been declared the winner of the country's presidential election, securing a second term after an election marked by political tensions, disruptions to vote counting and the arrest of opposition officials.

According to results from Zambia's electoral commission reported by the Associated Press, Hichilema secured around 60% of the presidential vote, while his main challenger, opposition leader Brian Mundubile, received around 38%.

The declaration settles a closely watched presidential contest in one of southern Africa's most politically stable democracies.

Hichilema Secures Second Term

Hichilema, 64, first came to power in 2021 and campaigned for another five-year term on his government's record of economic reform.

His administration has overseen Zambia's debt restructuring, efforts to control inflation and measures aimed at attracting additional investment into the country's mining industry.

Following the result, Hichilema said his government was humbled by the confidence voters had placed in it and pledged to govern for Zambians regardless of their political affiliation.

The president has also promised to continue pursuing economic development and dramatically increase Zambia's copper production, an increasingly important issue as global powers compete for access to critical minerals.

Election Followed Days of Tension

The presidential result follows several tense days after Zambians went to the polls.