Zambia's 2026 Election - Performance, Pressure, and Political Reality

## Zambia's 2026 Election: A Referendum on Performance and Promises **LUSAKA, Zambia** – With the 2026 general election looming, Zambia finds itself at a critical juncture, where the upcoming polls are less about a clash of political ideologies and more about a national assessment of performance, expectations, and credibility. The electorate is poised to deliver a verdict on the incumbent United Party for National Development (UPND) government, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, whose administration came into power on a wave of promises for economic recovery and good governance. President Hichilema inherited a deeply strained economy in August 2021, marked by high inflation, unsustainable debt, and low investor confidence. His government embarked on an ambitious reform agenda, achieving significant milestones such as the successful restructuring of a substantial portion of Zambia's external debt, easing fiscal pressures and restoring some international confidence. Inflation has seen periods of decline, and the Kwacha has shown signs of stabilization, providing a measure of relief to citizens. Furthermore, the administration has reported increased foreign direct investment pledges and a projected GDP growth of 6.4% in 2026, driven by mining and agriculture. Despite these reported achievements, the path to economic prosperity remains fraught with challenges. Public debt, though restructured, remains high, and the economy's reliance on copper exports leaves it vulnerable to global commodity price fluctuations. Youth unemployment persists above 20%, particularly in urban areas, and the cost of living remains a significant concern for many Zambians. Critics, such as Citizens First party president Harry Kalaba, have described Hichilema's performance as "dismal," citing a worsening economy, increasing corruption allegations, and persistent load-shedding as major failures. These sentiments underscore a growing public demand for tangible improvements in daily life. Bey