Zambia’s 2026 Election: Key Issues to Watch

The upcoming general election in Zambia on Thursday will be a crucial test of the country’s democracy, as incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema faces off against 14 opponents. The nation is grappling with economic recovery and governance reforms, raising questions about whether this election will deliver a clear mandate or further entrench divisions.

Economic issues have dominated the campaign, and it’s no surprise why. Official data shows that over 70% of the population lives on less than three dollars a day, despite some notable gains under Hichilema’s administration. The government has secured a landmark debt restructuring agreement, restored an International Monetary Fund program, and implemented free education – all crucial steps towards economic growth. However, the historic drought that crippled agriculture and forced severe hydro-power load-shedding has left household finances strained.

As voters head to the polls, they are not only concerned about their immediate economic needs but also the future of their country. The electoral landscape is complex, with 14 candidates vying for the presidency. Even small swings in support across the 10 provinces could determine whether the election goes to a second round – a mechanism designed to ensure that the president enjoys a clear popular mandate.

One key demographic analysts believe will play a decisive role is the youth turnout. With nearly half of registered voters aged between 18 and 35, young people are poised to be a pivotal bloc in this election. Their participation could either solidify Hichilema’s position or propel one of his opponents into power.

The underrepresentation of women in Zambian politics is another critical issue that cannot be ignored. Despite comprising roughly 51% of the population, women hold only about 15% of parliamentary seats and fewer than 20% of political leadership positions. The fact that there is only one female presidential candidate and four female running mates raises questions about whether Zambia has truly moved towards achieving gender parity.

Concerns over judicial independence have also surfaced in recent months. President Hichilema’s suspension of three Constitutional Court judges who ruled in favor of his rival, former President Edgar Lungu, has sparked debate over the executive’s interference with justice delivery. Lawyer Linda Kasonde argues that “judicial independence is the ability to adjudicate on any matter, without fear or favor, regardless of the stakes involved in the case.” The recent appointment of 16 new judges – many from the incumbent’s strongholds – only adds fuel to these concerns.

The country’s restrictive laws and regulations have also raised eyebrows. Dissent and opposition gatherings are already restricted by laws such as the Public Order Act and cybercrime legislation, prompting Amnesty International’s warnings about the weaponization of these laws. It is imperative that Zambia’s election delivers a clear mandate for governance reforms that prioritize democratic values and protect human rights.

As Zambians head to the polls on Thursday, they will be voting not only for their president but also for the future of their country. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for the region, and a clear mandate for governance reforms is imperative. Anything less would be a betrayal of the trust placed in the electoral process by Zambian citizens.

The 14 candidates vying for the presidency represent a fragmented electoral field, with urban centers such as Lusaka and the Copperbelt likely to play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Rural provinces traditionally follow established party loyalties, which could either solidify Hichilema’s position or propel one of his opponents into power.

The lack of women in politics is a pressing issue that this election cannot afford to ignore. With only about 15% of parliamentary seats and fewer than 20% of political leadership positions held by women, it remains to be seen whether Zambia has truly moved towards achieving gender parity.

President Hichilema’s suspension of three Constitutional Court judges who ruled in favor of his rival, former President Edgar Lungu, has sparked debate over the executive’s interference with justice delivery. The recent appointment of 16 new judges – many from the incumbent’s strongholds – only adds fuel to these concerns about judicial independence.

The outcome of Zambia’s election will be closely watched by regional and international observers. Will this election deliver a clear popular mandate for Hichilema or propel one of his opponents into power? As Zambians head to the polls on Thursday, they will be voting not only for their president but also for the future of their country.