THE BILLBOARD AND THE PROMISE: Five Years of Hichilema
Towering above the Munali flyover in Lusaka, a giant campaign billboard of President Hakainde Hichilema greets thousands of motorists every day. Beneath the slogan “Zambia Forward Together,” the image projects confidence, continuity and a bid for a second term.
But as the billboard dominates one of the capital’s busiest roads, it also raises a broader question: five years after coming to power on a promise of reform, freedom and accountability, how much of that promise has been delivered?
Supporters point to debt restructuring, free education, expanded CDF funding and improved international standing. Critics question whether democratic reforms have gone far enough and whether economic gains are reaching ordinary citizens.
As Zambia heads towards the August 2026 elections, MakanDay examines Hichilema’s first term, the state of the country’s democracy, the economy, and the issues likely to shape voter decisions.
Has the promise of 2021 been fulfilled? Is it still a work in progress? Or is a different path needed?
MakanDay Center for Investigative Journalism
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