Zambia President Rallies for Second Term Ahead of Election

President Hakainde Hichilema addressed a large crowd in Lusaka on 12 March, urging voters to support his bid for a second term in the 2026 presidential election. The rally, held at the National Assembly grounds, drew thousands of supporters who marched with banners pledging to back the incumbent’s economic reform agenda and anti‑corruption drive. Hichilema called for continued investment in infrastructure, a stable currency, and expanded access to affordable energy, arguing that these policies would lift Zambia’s living standards.

The president’s campaign has faced a resurgent opposition from the Patriotic Front, led by former President Michael Sata’s widow, and the United Party for National Development, both of whom have criticized the administration’s handling of inflation and public debt. Despite the opposition’s concerns, Hichilema’s supporters highlighted the progress made since taking office, citing reductions in poverty rates and improvements in the country’s credit rating. The rally also served as a platform for the president’s party to rally its base ahead of the upcoming election, with party officials promising to mobilize voters across the country.

In closing, Hichilema reiterated that his administration would continue to pursue inclusive growth and transparent governance. The rally, which attracted both domestic and international observers, underscores the president’s intent to secure a mandate for his policies. As Zambia heads toward the 2026 election, the rally’s turnout and the president’s messaging will likely influence the political landscape and voter sentiment in the months ahead.