Zambians cast ballots in a presidential election that tests incumbent's economic reforms

LUSAKA, Zambia (AP) — Vote counting got underway Thursday evening in Zambia after polls closed in a closely watched presidential election that tests whether President Hakainde Hichilema's economic reforms were enough to overcome widespread frustration over the cost of living.

About 8 million people in the southern African country of 22 million were registered to vote at more than 13,500 polling stations in the one-day election. Voters were also choosing members of Parliament and local government councilors. The Electoral Commission of Zambia said results were expected Monday.

Voters bundled in thick jackets had queued in long lines before dawn outside polling stations across Lusaka, some huddling around makeshift fires as election officials prepared for voting.

European Union observers monitored voting at one polling station in Lusaka. Separately, a local election observer said poor voter direction, confusion over voter rolls and crowd management issues caused delays and frustration at some polling stations.

Mathias Ngoma, in his 70s, said he has voted in every election he could because "it's the only voice I have."

"I braved the cold to choose leaders I am hoping will make things better in our constituency," he said.

The election is widely seen as a referendum on Hichilema' s handling of the economy. Elected in 2021, he is seeking a second term after restructuring Zambia's massive foreign debt, stabilizing the economy and attracting investment.

Hichilema, one of 14 candidates, cast his ballot shortly after midday in Lusaka's Kabulonga suburb. He described the election as a choice between continuing his government's reforms or reversing course.

"This election is really about the people of Zambia and their future — progress as opposed to regression," he told reporters.

Voters wait outside a polling station to cast their votes during Zambia's general elections, including a presidential election, in Lusaka, Zambia, on Aug. 13, 2026. Photo by Moses Mwape/Reuters

Brian Mundubile, considered by analysts to be the strongest opposition candidate, cast his vote in the Olympia area. He assured Zambians that their "second independence" was imminent and encouraged them to cast their ballots peacefully.

Mundubile, who leads an alliance of opposition parties, has campaigned on promises to lower the cost of living, improve agriculture and restore democratic freedoms while accusing Hichilema's government of undermining democratic institutions.

"This is a revolution," he said after voting. "The will of the Zambian people will certainly prevail in this election."

Many Zambians say they don't feel the benefits of recent economic growth as unemployment, food prices and an unstable electricity supply continue to strain household budgets.