Hakainde Hichilema sworn in as Zambia’s president after disputed election

By Al Jazeera English

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Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second term after winning last month's presidential election with about 60 percent of the vote. His main rival, opposition leader Brian Mundubile, received around 38 percent but is in prison on treason charges, which he denies. Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, are accused of planning an armed insurgency to disrupt the election and say they are ready to defend themselves in court. Regional and international election observers have reported serious irregularities, including alleged interference with vote counting, soldiers deployed at polling stations and the closure of courts. Hichilema came to power in 2021 promising a democratic break from the previous government, which he accused of rigging elections and jailing opponents. As Zambia seeks investment in its copper and other mineral resources, the government's treatment of political opponents could put renewed pressure on its human rights record. Al Jazeera's H

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