Zambia Election

Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema shares a light moment with journalists after casting his vote at a polling station in Lusaka, Zambia, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026.

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Zambia suspends vote counting in election over reports of violence and the theft of ballot papers

Zambia suspends vote counting in election over reports of violence and the theft of ballot papers

Vote counting in Zambia’s presidential election has been suspended by the electoral authority. The Electoral Commission of Zambia halted the count Friday due to reports of attacks on polling officials and theft of ballot papers. The commission plans to review the decision within 24 hours. Opposition leader Brian Mundubile has claimed victory, expressing concerns about potential interference. He alleged military involvement in vote counting, though he provided no evidence. The election is a test of President Hakainde Hichilema’s economic reforms. Hichilema is seeking a second term against 13 other candidates, including Mundubile. Results were initially expected by Monday.