What are the latest news in Zambia?
Presidential Election and Political Developments
- Re-election of Hakainde Hichilema: President Hakainde Hichilema secured a second term following the general election, winning roughly 60% of the vote against main challenger Brian Mundubile (~38%). civicus lens———
- Opposition Disputes & Court Closures: Opposition leaders contested the results. Tensions escalated after authorities temporarily restricted access to court premises and key public offices for security reviews right around the deadline to file formal election petitions, leading to controversy and pushback from civil society and legal bodies.- UN News – the United Nations+ 1———
- Inauguration Preparations: Preparations are underway for the presidential inauguration ceremony at National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka. -Times of Zambia ———
- Arrests and Raids: Police conducted raids targeting several opposition figures over allegations of plotting unrest and illegal arms possession.- Opposition figures have denied the accusations. -UN News – the United Nations+ 1——–
- International & Human Rights Concerns: The UN Human Rights Office and regional election observer missions have called for restraint, adherence to due process, and the protection of civil liberties following reports of arbitrary detentions.- UN News – the United Nations———
- Inflation: Annual inflation eased to 6.2% due to dropping food and fuel prices. -www.zambiamonitor.com——–
- Currency and Debt: The Treasury announced progress in debt restructuring to free up funding for infrastructure and development projects, though the Zambian Kwacha has faced ongoing pressure against major foreign currencies.- www.zambiamonitor.com———
- Public Health: The Ministry of Health announced the scale-up of twice-yearly injectable PrEP as part of broader preventative healthcare initiatives. -Times of Zambia ———