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Zambians vote in presidential election amid cost of living concerns

Zambians are voting today to elect a president and parliament, with over eight million registered voters. The election is largely seen as a contest between incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema and challenger Brian Mundubile.

  • More than eight million voters are registered to cast ballots in Zambia's presidential and parliamentary election.
  • President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term, with his main challenger being Brian Mundubile.
  • Unemployment and the rising cost of living are significant issues for voters.

Zambians are currently voting in an election to choose their next president and parliament. Polls opened at 06:00 local time (04:00 GMT) and are scheduled to close at 18:00.

Over eight million voters are registered to participate in the election. The vote is considered a test of Zambia's democratic stability, with concerns raised about political freedoms.

President Hakainde Hichilema is campaigning for a second five-year term, having overseen an economic rebound. However, many voters continue to express frustration over high living costs.

Fourteen candidates are on the ballot, but the election is largely viewed as a two-horse race between President Hichilema, 64, and his main challenger, Brian Mundubile. Mr Mundubile previously served as a minister in the Patriotic Front (PF) government.

A presidential candidate must secure more than 50% of the vote to win outright; otherwise, a run-off election will be held within 37 days.

Why this matters: The election is seen as a test of Zambia's reputation as a stable democracy in Africa.

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