Voting starts today (Thursday) in Zambia in a tightly contested election between incumbent Patriotic Front (PF) candidate Edgar Lungu and main challenger Hakainde Hichilema.
Allegations of vote fraud and intimidation of supporters have been raised by Hichilema’s United Party for National Development (UPND) after reports of violence in the capital Lusaka between supporters of the two main parties.
Two PF supporters were last Friday hacked to death with machetes by attackers suspected to be from the UNDP, police said.
A Lusaka resident Kelvin Musunga yesterday told Ubuntu Times that the security situation stabilized after president Lungu deployed the army to help police quell pre-election violence.
“So far the situation is calm and stable. Soldiers and police have been in the streets. During the campaign period, we had reports of violence and police arresting suspects. They have been doing a good job ensuring there is peace.”
“However, some houses were burnt, and to maintain peace, I think people should not wear political regalia with their preferred candidates,” said Musunga.
Another citizen working in Kitwe only identified as Paul said “it is very peaceful here.”
The elections come as Zambia has a US$12 billion dollar external debt and becoming the first African country to default loan repayment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lungu’s government has managed to embark on infrastructure projects but has failed to manage the economic welfare of citizens followed by a depreciating Kwacha currency.
Added Musunga: “Under the ruling party, the currency Kwacha has depreciated and it has been difficult for Zambians to buy basic commodities. The PF has developed roads and infrastructure but the cost of living has been high and we do not know what the ruling party will do if they get back in office.”
“Many youths are not happy with the ruling party and are hoping for a new government. Most of the youths are really looking forward to change in the country.”