In a nation long regarded as a model of democratic stability in southern Africa, Zambia's presidential election has been shadowed by violence, intimidation, and a suspended ballot count that shook confidence in the process before it could be restored. With copper wealth, 22 million citizens, and a fragile democratic reputation at stake, the contest between incumbent Hakainde Hichilema and challenger Brian Mundubile has become as much a struggle over the legitimacy of the count as over the votes themselves. International observers from the European Union and SADC have documented a troubling pat
Zambia's election marred by violence, intimidation as vote counting suspended
At least one polling agent killed during election day violence; reports of intimidation, assault, and abductions across five provinces; security forces allegedly involved in opposition harassment.