Zambia Resumes Vote Counting After Violence Suspends Process

Zambia has resumed vote counting nationwide after a suspension due to election-related violence. The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) lifted the pause after stating that security threats had been contained.

The commission had suspended counting on Friday following reports of violence targeting election staff and the theft of marked ballot papers. The first presidential results are expected at 10:00 p.m. local time. President Hakainde Hichilema, seeking a second term, stated his campaign was receiving encouraging results and urged supporters to remain peaceful. His main challenger, Brian Mundubile, claimed victory in the presidential race and asserted his alliance had won a majority of parliamentary seats.

The election, which included parliamentary and local contests, saw approximately 8.7 million registered voters. The vote occurred amidst concerns over political freedoms, arrests, and tensions between the government and opposition. Hichilema's economic record, including a debt restructuring agreement and restored IMF program, is also under scrutiny.