The Zambian electoral commission has resumed the counting of votes following a necessary pause triggered by violent attacks on polling staff and the theft of marked ballot papers.
The commission confirmed that after consulting with law enforcement, the security threat to the electoral process has been contained, allowing the tallying of votes to proceed toward a Sunday deadline. President Hakainde Hichilema, who is seeking a second term, faces a stiff challenge from opposition candidate Brian Mundubile.
The election serves as a critical test for the nation, with the incumbent’s economic record—marked by debt restructuring and inflation control—clashing with voter frustration over stagnant living conditions.
During the pause, Mundubile raised concerns regarding the integrity of the process, citing reports of military involvement at tallying centers and demanding transparency in the chain of custody for ballot boxes. While the commission works to finalize the results, Hichilema has called for public order.
As the nation awaits the outcome, the integrity of the democratic process remains the central focus following the criminal disruption of the ballot count.
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