Zambians went to the polls on Thursday in a closely watched national election, with President Hakainde Hichilema seeking a second term after overseeing the country’s economic recovery from a pandemic-era debt crisis.

Hichilema, who took office in 2021, is widely considered the frontrunner, benefiting from the advantages of incumbency and a divided opposition. However, first-time presidential candidate Brian Mundubile has attracted large crowds in some parts of the country, adding uncertainty to the contest.

A central issue for voters is whether the economic gains achieved under Hichilema have translated into improved living conditions. The cost of living remains a major concern in the southern African nation of about 22 million people.

Hichilema’s administration has overseen Zambia’s efforts to restructure its debt and stabilize the economy after the country became the first African sovereign to default during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

The government has highlighted the progress made since then, while opposition figures have focused on the economic pressures still facing ordinary households.

Zambia is also a major player in the global critical-minerals sector. It is Africa’s second-largest copper producer after the Democratic Republic of Congo, making the election significant not only domestically but also for international investors seeking access to strategic mineral resources.

China remains a major investor in Zambia’s mining industry, while the United States has sought to strengthen its economic engagement with the country and expand access to critical minerals.

Earlier this year, negotiations over up to $2 billion in U.S. health funding stalled after Zambia objected to Washington's reported efforts to link the funding to mining agreements.

Voters are electing the president as well as members of parliament and local government representatives.

Polling stations are scheduled to close at 6 p.m. local time (1600 GMT), with official results expected on Monday.

The election will ultimately test whether Hichilema can convince voters that his government's economic reforms and debt restructuring efforts have produced sufficient benefits to secure another term, amid continuing concerns over household finances and the cost of living. (ILKHA)