The Editor Zambia
There is an old saying that all is well that ends well.
For President Hakainde Hichilema and the millions of Zambians who have placed their confidence in his leadership, the declaration of his victory in the 2026 presidential election represents the culmination of one of the most politically challenging journeys in Zambia’s recent history. 
Hichilema has emerged victorious after facing formidable odds, including years of political hostility, relentless criticism, accusations directed at his leadership and attempts by sections of the opposition to portray him as a president serving only particular interests.
Yet when the people were given the opportunity to make their choice, they spoke through the ballot.
The message from the electorate is difficult to ignore because Zambians have once again demonstrated that political arguments, ethnic rhetoric, allegations and campaign theatrics ultimately count for little when they are placed against the judgement of the ordinary voter.
President Hichilema’s political journey has never been easy because before winning the presidency in 2021, he contested several elections and endured political setbacks that would have discouraged many politicians.
His eventual victory five years ago was historic and his re-election is perhaps even more significant because it demonstrates that his support was not merely an expression of frustration with the previous administration, but a continued belief that he deserves an opportunity to complete the transformation he promised.
Throughout the campaign, President Hichilema and his supporters faced what they regarded as a determined effort to undermine his administration.
His critics sought to exploit every difficulty confronting the country, while political opponents attempted to turn legitimate national frustrations into a referendum against his leadership.
There were also uncomfortable attempts to inject tribal considerations into the political debate.
Zambia has unfortunately witnessed the resurfacing of language that seeks to define political leadership through one’s ethnic identity rather than through competence, performance, and national vision.
President Hichilema, however, has continued to insist that Zambia belongs to all its citizens. That position has now received an important endorsement from the electorate.
The opposition also tried to have it its way. Allegations of electoral irregularities, claims of manipulation, and disputes surrounding the counting process created anxiety in a country that has traditionally prided itself on peaceful transfers of power.
Security incidents and accusations exchanged between political actors further heightened tensions.
Yet the democratic process ultimately produced a result. President
Hichilema’s victory of about 61 percent against Brian Mundubile’s roughly 38 percent is more than a numerical outcome.
It is a statement of confidence from voters who apparently believe the president remains the better placed leader to take Zambia forward.
The victory also places a significant responsibility on President Hichilema. The people who voted for him expect results, while those who voted against him deserve to be treated with equal respect. His post-election message that he hears those who supported his opponents was therefore important.
The real task begins now. Since the return to multiparty democracy in 1991, Zambia has changed governments through elections, but many citizens continue to feel that the promised political and economic Canaan has remained frustratingly distant.
Successive administrations have struggled with unemployment, poverty, inequality, debt, inadequate infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities.
President Hichilema’s second term, therefore, cannot simply be about celebrating victory. It must be about delivering the Zambia that voters have been waiting for since 1991.
The President has survived the hatred, the political manoeuvring, the accusations, the tribal insinuations, and the many attempts to derail his administration. His greatest response has been to remain standing and return to the people for another mandate.
Now, the political contest is over. The campaign rhetoric must give way to national reconstruction.
For those who supported him, this is a moment of celebration. For those who opposed him, it is a moment to accept the democratic verdict.
And for President Hichilema himself, it is a moment to prove that the trust placed in him was justified.
Zambia has spoken. The challenge is now to turn that confidence into jobs, prosperity, unity, and opportunity.
Perhaps, after all the political storms, all is indeed well that ends well.
