President Hichilema Launches 2026 Presidential Campaign

Thousands of supporters thronged the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka as President Hakainde Hichilema officially launched his 2026 re-election campaign.

The crowd, clad in red and energized by music and dance, erupted in cheers as the Head of State arrived to unveil his vision for the next term.

President Hichilema urged citizens to safeguard Zambia’s economic progress by supporting the UPND in the August 13 General Election. He said continued support would allow the Government to advance policies that promote growth, education, peace, and unity.

The President thanked Zambians for the trust placed in his administration in 2021, acknowledging ongoing economic challenges but assuring that measures are being implemented to ease the cost of living.

Highlighting achievements, he cited the introduction of free education, which has enabled over 2.5 million children to return to school, the expansion of the school feeding programme, and the recruitment of more than 45,000 teachers. He also pointed to progress in debt restructuring, increased mining output, and improved reserves now standing at 6.5 billion US dollars.

President Hichilema dismissed criticism of Zambia’s macroeconomic performance, saying that strong fundamentals are vital for job creation, the continuation of free education, and infrastructure development. He emphasized that his administration has restored peace by ending political violence in public spaces and called for unity under the “One Zambia, One Nation” motto.

UPND Alliance Chairperson Charles Milupi pledged intensified campaigns to secure another term for President Hichilema, describing the alliance as Zambia’s largest and most united coalition.

Other alliance leaders, including PNUP President Highvie Hamududu, UPPZ President Charles Chanda, New Nation Party President Nevers Mumba, and Democratic Party President Judith Kabemba, endorsed President Hichilema’s candidacy, citing his leadership and economic reforms.

Representatives from NAREP, MDC, UPP, UNIP, NCP, and former Matero MP Miles Sampa also declared support, urging Zambians to rally behind the UPND for continued development.