Former diplomat and politician Dr. Vernon Mwaanga says his assessment of Zambia’s political landscape suggests that President Hakainde Hichilema is on course to win the August 13, 2026, presidential election.
In a statement issued to the media, Dr. Mwaanga said his assessment is based on information gathered through a network of district-based non-governmental organisations, consultations with citizens across the country and his own analysis of the electoral environment.
He said the available evidence gives the incumbent President a clear advantage, while emphasizing that the final outcome will ultimately be determined by Zambian voters on polling day.
Dr. Mwaanga also commended the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) for its handling of the electoral process, describing the management of voter registration, voter verification and candidate nominations as professional.
He further praised political parties and independent candidates for conducting largely peaceful campaigns and appealed for continued tolerance and peaceful conduct before, during and after the August elections.
Dr. Mwaanga noted that the increase in registered voters to approximately 8.7 million, including a large number of first-time young voters and women, is expected to boost voter turnout in this year’s elections.
He attributed his prediction to what he described as the Government’s economic achievements, including progress in debt restructuring, the implementation of free education, economic recovery and renewed investor confidence, which he said have featured prominently in his engagements with citizens across the country.
