Thousands of supporters yesterday thronged the Mulungushi International Conference Centre as President Hakainde Hichilema filed his nomination papers ahead of the August 13, 2026 General Election.
The nomination centre was transformed into a vibrant gathering point as supporters from across the country converged on the venue to witness the official filing of the President’s candidature.
By midday, the atmosphere around the conference centre had grown into what many described as more than a routine nomination exercise, with large crowds filling the grounds and surrounding areas.
Supporters began arriving as early as 10:00 hours, streaming in from various parts of Lusaka and beyond. The large turnout extended along sections of Great East Road, including areas near the National Assembly of Zambia, Manda Hill and the University of Zambia footbridges, resulting in heavy traffic congestion.
Dressed in UPND regalia and carrying banners, supporters sang campaign songs, chanted slogans and waved flags as they awaited the arrival of the Head of State.
Excitement heightened when Vice President Mutale Nalumango arrived at the venue ahead of the President, drawing cheers from the crowd.
At around 15:00 hours, President Hichilema arrived alongside First Lady Mutinta Hichilema, triggering loud applause, ululations and chants from supporters gathered at the venue.
While only accredited officials and delegates were allowed into the nomination hall, thousands remained outside celebrating as the nomination process proceeded.
Several senior UPND officials and former Cabinet ministers attended the event in support of the President, including Mulambo Haimbe, Felix Mutati, Rodney Sikumba and Jack Mwiimbu.
Outside the venue, supporters continued singing and dancing throughout the proceedings, creating an atmosphere more akin to a political rally than an administrative exercise.
Police maintained security around the venue, with the gathering remaining peaceful and orderly despite the large numbers in attendance.
Following the successful validation of his nomination papers by the Electoral Commission of Zambia, President Hichilema emerged to address supporters, receiving a thunderous reception from the crowd that had waited throughout the day to witness the occasion.
The event marked the conclusion of the presidential nomination process and officially confirmed President Hichilema’s participation in the August 13 general election.
Who took the Picture ?? As i dont believe it Unless ofcourse people were bused in which is a strong possibility No wonder the president believes he’s riding high
Paid audience
Yeah Rent a crowd
Rented crowds. Reminds of how they failed to pay Nortec students after hiring them to create artificial popularity.
Wow , HH has massive crowds he’s gonna shock these unwise naysayers with a landslide win.
60 + years of lies and promises still hasnt taught us anything
Always waking up when the horse has bolted
Lied to like the Zimbabweans. Who have now fled to South Africa where they are not wanted.
Well what can you do when the grz has got you by the goolies