Former Zambian president Edgar Lungu has thrown a spanner in the works, calling for an early election and accusing his successor Hakainde Hichilema of mismanaging the nation’s economy. This comes after Lungu’s recent announcement of a political comeback, further adding fuel to the fire of Zambia’s simmering political tensions.
During a public address, Lungu painted a gloomy picture of the Zambian economy under Hichilema’s leadership, urging citizens to demand an early election. He further criticised the government’s handling of the ongoing cholera outbreak, which has claimed nearly 600 lives since October. To amplify his call, Lungu urged Zambians to “vocalise their demand” for Hichilema’s resignation and the initiation of snap polls.
The government wasted no time in rebutting Lungu’s claims. Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa urged citizens to give Hichilema a fair chance to deliver on his campaign promises, dismissing Lungu’s accusations as baseless. Mweetwa also took aim at Lungu’s own record, blaming him for the economic woes Zambia currently faces.
Tensions in Zambia have been simmering ever since Lungu announced his return to the political scene, having retired in 2021 after a resounding defeat. The government’s decision to withdraw his retirement benefits only served to exacerbate the animosity between the former and current leaders.
With Lungu’s fiery pronouncements, Zambia finds itself at a crossroads. Citizens face a crucial decision that will shape the nation’s future. The potential for a highly contested 2026 presidential race looms large, making the coming months pivotal for Zambia’s political landscape. Only time will tell whether cooler heads will prevail or if Zambia will be plunged into further political turmoil.