By Ollus Ndomu
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema landed at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka late Saturday afternoon aboard an Emirates flight. The president had been in the United Kingdom meeting potential investors, engaging with key European figures, and receiving an honorary doctorate for his commitment to enhancing access to education in Zambia.
During his UK visit, President Hichilema sought to bolster Zambia’s economic ties and attract foreign investment, key components of his administration’s strategy to rejuvenate the nation’s economy. The honorary doctorate awarded to him underlines his dedication to educational reforms, a cornerstone of his domestic policy agenda.
Back in Zambia, former President Edgar Lungu was rallying supporters in Kitwe on the Copperbelt. Lungu, who served as president from 2015 to 2021, hinted at a political comeback in the upcoming 2026 elections. True to form, his speech prominently featured critiques of President Hichilema, who is fondly referred to as “HH” or “Bally.”
Lungu’s rally message has sparked significant backlash on social media. Critics argue that his promises lack substance and are merely a reaction to his fear of facing justice should Hichilema secure a second term. Comments on social media reflect a mix of skepticism and support:
“Please trust this man at your own risk. He will finish us completely, we are better off without him trust me. Lungu has nothing to offer, he is just afraid of what he has to suffer if HH is given another term. Please napapata let’s be careful of the Xs who want to come back.”
“And President Dr. HH has already done far much better than his 7 years in office!”
“This would have been the stage to showcase what he is going to do different from the current economic doldrums. If he was given the power back, what are the immediate solutions to load shedding, short-term and long-term solutions with the drought persisting? What are the short and long-term plans for fuel and the dollar? If the rally is about HH this, HH that, then I am afraid. HH has no competitor. Truth be told, go to the villages where CDF is used in schools and those who are doing welding despite the electricity challenges—they are able to make money through the contracts they are winning for making desks. They cannot risk such an opportunity to put someone who is not going to address the above problems as stated. I submit.”
As Zambia prepares for the 2026 elections, the political landscape is becoming increasingly polarized. President Hichilema’s return marks a critical juncture as he continues to push forward with his agenda, while Lungu’s potential return to the political fray promises to ignite further debate about the future direction of the nation.
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