LUSAKA - President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second term of office following his victory in the 2026 general election.
President Hichilema was inaugurated at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka this afternoon during a ceremony attended by several African Heads of State, including Kenyan President William Ruto, Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Botswana President Duma Boko, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Vice President Mutale Nalumango was also sworn in during the ceremony.
President Hichilema was re-elected after winning the August 13 election with more than 2.9 million votes, ahead of runner-up Brian Mundubile, who received more than 1.8 million votes.
The inauguration marks the official commencement of President Hichilema's second term in office.
Thousands of Zambians turned up for the ceremony, filling the 60,000-seat stadium. UPND supporters, predominantly dressed in red, began arriving as early as 04:30 hours to secure entry.
Security was tight around the stadium, with police and military personnel deployed to manage the crowds and direct traffic into the venue.
Diplomats, traditional leaders, clergy and government officials also attended the inauguration ceremony.
Source: PHOENIX NEWS
By: Elesani Phiri/Joseph Kaputula