Zambia's General Election: President Hakainde Hichilema Seeks Second Term Amid Economic Struggles

Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema proudly points to the economic recovery that has taken place under his guidance as he campaigns for a second term in office. This upcoming general election has drawn significant international interest because, while the southern African nation possesses vast reserves of critical minerals, the majority of Zambians fail to share in that prosperity. According to the World Bank, 70 percent of the population currently lives on less than three dollars a day. In light of these challenges, how will the results of the vote influence Zambia's politics?

In this discussion hosted by presenter James Bays, expert guests Oliver Saasa, Chancellor at Mulungushi University; Sishuwa Sishuwa, Senior lecturer in history at Stellenbosch University; and Christopher Vandome, Senior Research Fellow at Chatham House’s Africa Programme, analyze the stakes and potential outcomes.