Zambia halts presidential vote counting over alleged attacks on polling staff
Zambia's electoral commission has suspended the counting of votes from Thursday's presidential, parliamentary, and local elections due to alleged attacks on polling staff and reports of violence leading to the theft of marked ballot papers. The commission stated the nationwide halt is effective immediately and will be reviewed within 24 hours. President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second five-year term, with Brian Mundubile as the main opposition candidate among 13 challengers. Mundubile expressed concern over delays in announcing results, warning of potential interference, and called for immediate publication of results polling station by polling station. Hichilema urged Zambians to remain peaceful and patient. Polling day was largely peaceful, with queues reported and only isolated delays. The election, which included presidential, parliamentary, and local council votes for over eight million registered voters, is seen as a test of Zambia's democratic stability. The presidential race was primarily between Hichilema and Mundubile, running under the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity NRPUP. Hichilema is credited with economic improvements but faces criticism regarding living standards and human rights restrictions, an accusation Zambian authorities have not commented on. Mundubile, a former minister, aims to capitalize on public dissatisfaction. If no candidate secures over 50% of the vote, a run-off will be held within 37 days.
