Hichilema Seeks Stronger Mandate Ahead of 2026 Polls

Speaking to party officials in Lusaka, President Hichilema highlighted what he described as key achievements since taking office, including the abolition of school examination fees and the introduction of free education - a policy he said has brought 2.3 million children back into classrooms.

The president also pointed to his government's handling of the country’s debt crisis, saying the country had become "the first in the world" to successfully complete debt restructuring following the pandemic.

"Zambia was once on the verge of being ungovernable due to heavy debt," President Hichilema said, adding that his administration had redirected funds previously spent on luxury ministerial vehicles to the Constituency Development Fund.

Addressing the country's ongoing electricity shortages, the president said government was investing in solar and other alternative energy sources to ensure reliable power for homes and businesses.

President Hichilema insisted the fight against corruption "is not selective" and called on citizens to reject tribalism, emphasising his vision for "a united and prosperous Zambia".

The president also highlighted improvements to retirees' welfare, saying his government had ended the practice of pensioners sleeping outside the Ministry of Finance while waiting for their payments.