Hichilema urged voters to back his UPND party as jobs, living costs and economic recovery dominate Zambia’s election campaign….reports Africa Daily News Desk
Tens of thousands of supporters gathered in Lusaka for Hichilema’s final campaign rally as the incumbent seeks re-election in Zambia’s August 13 vote.
Supporters of the ruling UPND, dressed in red and waving party flags, gathered in a former opposition stronghold south of the capital as Hichilema sought to energise his base ahead of polling day.
The 64-year-old president, who came to power in 2021, urged voters to support the UPND and highlighted his government’s record on free education and recruitment of nurses and teachers.
“Have you also agreed to vote for the UPND?” Hichilema asked the crowd.
Jobs and the cost of living have emerged as key concerns during the campaign. Zambia’s economic recovery and progress towards resolving its debt crisis have been among the government’s major talking points, while critics argue that economic gains have yet to translate into improved living standards for many households.
Supporters at the rally praised Hichilema for what they described as greater political stability since he took office.
UPND supporter Brian Mpande said peace was the president’s most important achievement, while teacher Sandra Simwale said she expected a peaceful election.
Hichilema has also sought to portray the election as a choice between his administration and a return to what he describes as the instability associated with the previous Patriot Front government.
Free education has been another central campaign message. Supporter Anna Chewa, 29, said the policy was among the reasons she backed Hichilema.
The president’s main challenger, Brian Mundubile, has accused authorities of using arrests and alleged abductions to intimidate opposition figures. Mundubile has also claimed that journalists, musicians and bloggers have faced detention for criticising the government.
“This election must not be conducted under fear,” Mundubile said at a press briefing.
The government has not been cited in the supplied material as responding to those specific allegations.
Mundubile entered the presidential race in May and secured backing from several smaller opposition groups. His campaign has faced difficulties, including clashes at some early rallies, after which he shifted much of his campaigning online.
Twelve other candidates are also contesting the election, although Hichilema and Mundubile are among the main figures in the campaign.
The August 13 election will determine whether Hichilema secures a second five-year term as Zambia seeks to build on its economic recovery and strengthen its role in the global green-energy transition.
