Hichilema welcomes election competition as he defends government’s economic record
President Hakainde Hichilema says he welcomes political competition ahead of Zambia’s general election, describing competitive elections as a cornerstone of democracy while defending his government’s record on the economy, job creation and the cost of living.
Lusaka, 6 July – Speaking during an interview with BBC Focus on Africa hosted by Dingindaba Jonah Buyo, President Hichilema dismissed suggestions that increased opposition activity reflected growing public dissatisfaction, saying he was pleased to see a competitive electoral environment.
“We are proud to have competition in the election. Democracy is important, elections are important. After all, elections are the ultimate in a democratic period of five years. We are happy to have competition. That is how it should be,” President Hichilema said.
The President said his administration had largely fulfilled the commitments it made to Zambians before taking office, despite facing challenges beyond its control, including a severe drought and the impact of global conflicts.
He argued that his government inherited an economy in crisis, citing debt distress, defaulted obligations and negative economic growth. He said the administration had since completed debt restructuring, creating fiscal space that would allow more investment in the country’s economy.
“We inherited a broken-down country. We were in debt distress and the economy was declining. We restructured the debt and achieved savings of about US$1.9 billion, which is now creating room for investment rather than consumption expenditure,” he said.
On the high cost of living, President Hichilema said measures being implemented by his government were beginning to bear fruit, particularly through increased agricultural production.
Responding to questions over the continued high price of mealie meal, he said Zambia had recorded its highest maize harvest since independence, producing five million metric tonnes during the latest farming season.
He said the increased supply of maize was already contributing to lower mealie meal prices.
“Five million tonnes of maize have been produced this year, something that has never been achieved since independence. As supply increases, the price of mealie meal is coming down,” President Hichilema said.
He added that economic performance should be assessed using broader indicators rather than isolated price comparisons, arguing that inflation and the overall price environment must also be taken into account.
Addressing concerns about youth unemployment, President Hichilema pointed to public sector recruitment carried out during his administration, saying thousands of young people had already secured jobs.
He said the government had employed 45,000 teachers, 20,000 health workers and additional personnel in other public institutions, including the defence forces.
The President expressed confidence that continued economic growth would create further employment opportunities for young Zambians, saying those yet to find jobs would benefit as the economy continued to expand.
©Nkanionline 2026 #NewsOnDemand
Hichilema welcomes election competition as he defends government’s economic record
