Zambians turned out in large numbers on Thursday, August 13, 2026, to vote in the country’s general elections, with the exercise largely peaceful across the country. Incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema, who is seeking a second term, cast his ballot at Kabulonga Boys Secondary School in Lusaka. He urged voters to remain calm, exercise patience and cooperate with election officials.
Hichilema is competing against 12 other presidential candidates, including Brian Mundubile, who is contesting on the ticket of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity. Police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi said reports from across the country indicated that voting was proceeding peacefully.
Several voters also welcomed the calm atmosphere, saying it allowed them to exercise their democratic rights without interference. First-time voter Tina Banda said she was pleased to finally participate in the elections, while another voter, Henry Chanda, said he was encouraged by the peaceful conduct of the process.
Voting was scheduled to end at 6:00 p.m. local time (1600 GMT) on August 13, after which the counting of ballots was expected to begin. Under Zambia’s electoral rules, a presidential candidate must secure more than 50 per cent of valid votes to win outright. If no candidate reaches the threshold, a runoff will be held.