Hichilema begins second term as Zambia faces democratic test

by ARNOLD MULENGA
LUSAKA, (CAJ News) — PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has begun a second five-year term in Zambia, but his inauguration has been overshadowed by growing concerns over the country’s democratic space following a disputed election and a crackdown on opposition figures.

Hichilema was sworn in at Lusaka’s National Heroes Stadium on Tuesday after the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) declared him the winner of the 13 August presidential election with about 60 percent of the vote.

His closest challenger, opposition leader Brian Mundubile, rejected the result, alleging irregularities and saying he intended to challenge the outcome.

The inauguration drew prominent African leaders, underscoring Zambia’s importance within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the wider continent.

Those attending included Kenyan President William Ruto, Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Botswana President Duma Boko, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane was also among the visiting leaders.

SADC, comprising 16 member states, promotes regional integration, peace, security and economic development in southern Africa.

Zambia is one of its founding members and has historically been regarded as a relatively stable multiparty democracy.

However, that reputation is now under pressure.

Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, were arrested and charged with treason after the election.

Their detention followed a security raid linked to Mundubile’s residence during which former minister Mutotwe Kafwaya was fatally shot.

Authorities said security forces encountered gunfire and recovered weapons, while opposition figures disputed the account.

The arrests have raised concerns among international rights bodies. UN human rights chief Volker Türk has urged Zambia to ensure due process and that arrests comply with national and international human rights standards.

Further controversy followed when access to courts was temporarily suspended as the deadline approached for an election petition.

The opposition had questioned the vote-counting process and alleged manipulation of results. Authorities later said no presidential complaint had been filed within the constitutional deadline.

Observers nevertheless reported irregularities, while noting that Hichilema would probably have won even without them.

The developments present Hichilema with a crucial challenge: whether his second term will consolidate Zambia’s democratic institutions or deepen concerns about shrinking political space.

For SADC and its African partners, the issue extends beyond Zambia’s borders.

The region’s credibility depends not only on peaceful elections, but also on ensuring that political disagreements can be resolved through independent courts, open debate and respect for fundamental rights.

– CAJ News