President William Ruto has travelled to Zambia to attend the inauguration of President Hakainde Hichilema following his re-election in the August 2026 presidential election. Hichilema, 64, secured 60 per cent of the votes cast on August 13, defeating 13 other presidential candidates and earning another term in office. His victory, however, has faced criticism from opponents who questioned the conduct of the election.
President Ruto previously congratulated Hichilema on his victory, describing it as a reflection of his leadership and expressing confidence that his continued presidency would contribute to Zambia’s development. Ruto also said Hichilema’s re-election would provide an opportunity for Kenya and Zambia to deepen their longstanding bilateral relations and expand cooperation between the two countries.
In his victory address, Hichilema pledged to dedicate his second term to serving Zambians and accelerating the country’s economic development and growth. He has led Zambia since taking office in 2021. Meanwhile, concerns over political dissent have emerged following the arrest and treason charges against opposition leader Brian Mundubile, who finished second in the election with 38 per cent of the vote.
Mundubile, 55, and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, have been accused by police of posing a national security threat. Authorities said weapons, including rifles and other military equipment, were recovered during a raid at Mundubile’s residence shortly after the election.
The two opposition figures have denied the accusations, describing claims of an armed insurgency as fabricated. The developments have raised fresh concerns among opposition supporters over the treatment of political rivals following the election.
