Zambia's upcoming election is shaping up to be a fascinating and unpredictable affair, with a unique twist that has captured the nation's attention. The death of former President Edgar Lungu, and the ongoing dispute over his burial, has become a central issue, dividing the country and energizing political discourse.
This election, taking place on August 13th, will see over eight million registered voters choose their next leader and parliament. It's a contest between the incumbent, President Hakainde Hichilema, and a rising opposition led by Brian Mundubile, with the legacy of Lungu hanging heavily over the race.
The Cost of Living Crisis
One of the dominant issues on the minds of Zambians is the cost of living. Despite some economic improvements, with inflation cooling and the currency strengthening, many households are still struggling. The pandemic and global shocks have taken their toll, leaving people like Given Kangwa, a flour-mill worker, struggling to make ends meet.
Hichilema's Legacy
Hichilema, seeking a second term, has made significant strides in restructuring Zambia's debt and boosting the economy. He points to the recovery of copper production, increased foreign reserves, and the return of investor confidence. His free education policy has brought millions of children back to school, and employment opportunities have increased. However, critics argue that these benefits are not felt by all, and there are concerns about the silencing of opposition voices.
The Rise of Mundubile
Mundubile, the opposition challenger, has gained traction by promising a generational and inclusive approach. He aims to bring women and youth to the forefront of policy and economic transformation. His alliance with Makebi Zulu, a lawyer associated with the Lungu family, has helped consolidate the opposition and capitalize on lingering loyalty to the former president.
The Lungu Legacy
The unresolved burial of Lungu has become a powerful political symbol. The dispute between the Lungu family and President Hichilema has energized the opposition, with Mundubile promising a dignified burial if elected. This issue has added an unexpected layer of complexity to the election, highlighting the lingering influence of Lungu.
Constitutional Reforms and Representation
This election is the first under significant constitutional changes, aiming to boost representation, particularly for women, youth, and persons with disabilities. The reforms have expanded the number of constituency seats and introduced proportional representation. However, questions remain about the true impact of these changes and whether they will lead to meaningful influence.
Concerns over Electoral Integrity
Civil society voices, like Linda Kasonde, have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. The composition of the electoral commission, with members aligned to the incumbent ruling party, has led to doubts about its independence. The commission, however, maintains its commitment to transparency and constitutional mandates.
A Verdict on Zambia's Future
As Zambians head to the polls, they are faced with a choice between the tangible gains of the past five years and the promise of a new, inclusive future. The election results will be a reflection of the nation's priorities and a verdict on the direction it wants to take. With so many factors at play, this election is a true test of Zambia's democratic resilience and a fascinating study in political dynamics.
