Zambia holds presidential election as cost-of-living concerns persist

LUSAKA, Zambia — Zambians go to the polls on Thursday to vote in a presidential election, with incumbent Hakainde Hichilema seeking a second term after taking office in 2021 following the ouster of Edgar Lungu. Hichilema came to power on a platform of debt restructuring, inflation control and restored investor confidence, but rising food and fuel prices have kept the cost of living central to voter concerns. Millions of registered voters will also cast ballots for the National Assembly and local councils alongside the presidential race. Recent polling suggests Hichilema's lead over his main challenger has narrowed ahead of the vote. Official results are expected to be released in the days following the election. No further details were immediately available on turnout projections or security arrangements for polling day.