Hichilema Secures Party Nomination for Second Term Bid in Zambia

Hakainde Hichilema has been officially selected as the presidential candidate of the United Party for National Development (UPND) for the upcoming general elections, confirming his bid for a second term.

The announcement was made during the party’s 2026 general assembly in Lusaka, where Hichilema ran unopposed. The president described the nomination as an honor and expressed confidence in securing a strong victory in the August 13 elections, emphasizing job creation and economic progress as key priorities.

Hichilema, who came to power in 2021 after defeating former President Edgar Lungu, enters the race amid ongoing political debates. The unresolved issue of Lungu’s burial—his body remains in South Africa due to a dispute between his family and the government—continues to influence the political climate.

Opposition candidates include Brian Mundubile of the Tonse Alliance, independent candidate Given Katuta, and Fred M’membe.

Economic issues are expected to dominate the campaign. Zambia is a major global producer of copper, a resource critical for industries such as renewable energy and technology. While the country has experienced growth—forecast at 5.8% in 2026 by the IMF—it continues to face significant challenges, including a debt crisis, rising living costs, and widespread poverty affecting more than 70% of the population.

Despite these challenges, Hichilema highlighted over $12 billion in mining sector investments since 2022 as a sign of economic progress, positioning his leadership as key to future development.

As Zambia heads toward the polls, the election is set to test both the government’s economic record and its ability to address growing social concerns.

Source: Newstimehub