Hakainde Hichilema returns as Zambia’s president following disputed vote

Incumbent is inaugurated with his main rival in last month’s election jailed and the courts shuttered.Published On 1 Sep 20261 Sep 2026President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second term as Zambia’s president following his victory in disputed elections.As Hichilema was inaugurated at the National Heroes Stadium in the Zambian capital Lusaka on Tuesday, his main rival in last month’s election was in detention, accused of treason as allegations of vote rigging persisted.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemslist 1 of 3Hichilema re-elected as Zambia president amid opposition concerns over votelist 2 of 3Zambia opposition leader to challenge Hichilema election victory in courtlist 3 of 3Zambia opposition leader Brian Mundubile charged with treasonend of listLeaders and dignitaries from several countries, including the United States and China, flew in for the ceremony, during which the president pledged to rule with equality.“We receive your support with humility and with a clear understanding of the responsibility it places upon our shoulders. To those who chose other candidates or other parties, we say with equal sincerity: We have heard you,” Hichilema said.The day after th...