Hichilema Sworn in for Second Term, Pledges Growth and Unity

President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for his second term of office, taking the Oath of Office before Chief Justice Mumba Malila at a packed National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka. His running mate, Mutale Nalumango, was also sworn in as Vice-President, as thousands of cheering Zambians looked on.

Accompanied by First Lady Mutinta Hichilema, the President was accorded a presidential guard of honour, complete with the national anthem, a fly-past and a 21-gun salute.

In his inaugural address, President Hichilema said the focus of the next five years would shift from economic stabilisation to growth, expansion, opportunity and prosperity for all. He acknowledged that the benefits of reform had not yet reached every household amid concerns over the cost of living, but pledged that government would work to turn growth into jobs, markets and improved livelihoods, with fresh investment in agriculture, energy, mining, education, health, and youth and women empowerment.

The President also extended a hand of unity to his rivals, stressing that political competition must never override peace or the sanctity of life. "Where we disagree, we do so as political competitors, not as enemies," he said, pledging to listen to constructive criticism and work with all Zambians in the national interest.

The inauguration drew five Heads of State, from Tanzania, Kenya, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana, alongside high-level representatives from China, the United States, the UAE, Rwanda, Malawi and Eswatini.