Hakainde Hichilema returns as Zambia’s president following disputed vote

President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second term as Zambia’s president following his victory in disputed elections.

As Hichilema was inaugurated at the National Heroes Stadium in the Zambian capital Lusaka on Tuesday, his main rival in last month’s election was in detention , accused of treason as allegations of vote rigging persisted.

Leaders and dignitaries from several countries, including the United States and China, flew in for the ceremony, during which the president pledged to rule with equality.

“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,” Hichilema said.

The day after the August 13 election that secured a second term for Hichilema, 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 charged with treason, after spending two weeks seeking refuge with an international human rights organisation.

Police have not provided details of the allegations underpinning the charges. Both deny any wrongdoing.

Around a dozen other opposition figures who have questioned the election result have been arrested. The authorities abruptly closed the country’s courts last week.