Hakainde Hichilema inaugurated for second term as Zambia's president amid election disputes

Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second term as Zambia’s president following his victory in disputed elections. The inauguration took place at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka on Tuesday, where Hichilema's main rival from last month’s election was in detention, facing treason charges amid ongoing allegations of vote rigging. Leaders and dignitaries from several countries, including the United States and China, attended the ceremony. Hichilema pledged to govern with equality, stating, "We receive your support with humility and with a clear understanding of the responsibility it places upon our shoulders. To those who chose other candidates or other parties, we say with equal sincerity: We have heard you." The day after the August 13 election, police raided the home of runner-up Brian Mundubile, during which a former cabinet member was shot and killed. Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, were arrested on Thursday and charged with treason after seeking refuge with an international human rights organization for two weeks. Police have not disclosed details regarding the allegations against them, and both deny any wrongdoing. Approximately a dozen other opposition figures who have questioned the election results have also been arrested, and the authorities closed the country’s courts last week. Human Rights Watch has criticized this closure, stating it hinders the opposition's ability to file legal challenges against the election results. Hichilema was re-elected with 60 percent of the vote, while Mundubile received 38 percent but claims the election was rigged. During his inauguration, Hichilema promised to continue improving Zambia’s economy, having previously overseen debt restructuring, attracted international investment, and reduced inflation. His running mate, Mutale Nalumango, was also sworn in as vice-president at the ceremony. Among the attendees was Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who congratulated Hichilema on his re-election on social media, along with the presidents of Botswana, Kenya, and Zimbabwe.