Hichilema leads Zambia’s presidential vote count amid tense tally

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LUSAKA — Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema is leading the preliminary count in the country’s presidential election as the nation awaits official results from the Electoral Commission of Zambia.

Counting began after polls closed Thursday but was temporarily suspended Friday following reports of attacks on election officials and the theft of ballot papers at some polling stations. The process resumed hours later under heightened security, with police and military personnel deployed to strategic locations in the capital, Lusaka.

Hichilema, who is seeking a second five-year term, faces his strongest challenge from Brian Mundubile, the leader of an opposition alliance. Mundubile has called for transparency in the tabulation process and warned of possible interference, although he has not publicly provided evidence supporting the allegations.

About 8 million voters were registered to cast ballots at more than 13,500 polling stations. Zambians also voted for members of Parliament and local government representatives.

The electoral commission has urged the public to remain calm while ballots are verified. Hichilema’s lead remains provisional until the commission formally declares the results. A candidate must secure more than 50% of the valid votes to win in the first round.