Zambia's Hichilema sworn in for second term as rival faces treason charges

President Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in for a second term after a disputed August election in which opposition leader Brian Mundubile was detained and treason charges were filed against him and his running mate. Official results showed Hichilema winning about 60% to Mundubile’s 38%, but Mundubile and supporters allege irregularities. The election and post-election period saw security forces raid Mundubile’s home and opposition figures arrested, with Zambia’s courts effectively closed to petitions. The inauguration in Lusaka was attended by regional leaders and featured appeals to democratic processes, while Hichilema emphasized national reconciliation and listening to all voters. Observers noted procedural questions in tallying and a marred electoral process, though the country has had largely peaceful elections since returning to multiparty democracy in 1991. Hichilema is credited with steering an economic turnaround in his first term, setting the stage for his promised growth under a second administration.