Official Results Confirm Huge Lead For HH

Official results from the Electoral Commission of Zambia have confirmed a huge lead for Hakainde Hichilema in the presidential race. 

Latest polling indicates a majority of 59.81% for the UPND candidate, following the announcement of results in a further 16 constituencies. President Lungu, meanwhile is trailing on 39.9%.

This is in line with PVT data collected by Open Zambia, which predicts an outcome of 58% for Hichilema. 

Figures from the ECZ after 31 constituencies counted show that HH has received 449,699 votes. President Lungu is in second placed with 266,202 votes. The commission estimates turnout to have been 73.77% - a record high for Zambia. 

The opposition leader has made huge inroads into former Patriotic Front strongholds, polling ahead in the Eastern Province constituencies of Luangeni and Sinda. He is also performing well in the crucial swing province of the Copperbelt, winning a majority of votes in Kalulushi constituency. The seat has been represented by a PF MP since 2006.

These results confirm what many already expect: that HH is on track to win the presidency. Yesterday, Movement for Multi-Party Democracy candidate Nevers Mumba withdrew from the race, predicting that the UPND were poised for a “very big win”.