‘Citizens Have a Right to Assess Things the Way They See Them’-HH

As Zambia heads into the final hours of campaigning, President Hakainde Hichilema has acknowledged a reality many households are talking about: the economy may be improving, but many people are still struggling with the cost of living.

Speaking on ZNBC TV this morning, Hichilema was asked why indicators such as inflation, the exchange rate and Zambia's credit rating may be improving, while prices of basic goods such as mealie meal remain a concern. He said, “Citizens have a right to assess things the way they see them.”

The President said citizens should give government feedback about the challenges they face, adding that it is government's responsibility to listen and respond. “Our job is to hear the citizens' message, marry it with what we have done or what we are doing to address their concerns.”

President Hichilema also defended his administration's record since taking office in 2021, pointing to debt restructuring, the restoration of the mining sector and free education as some of the major changes made during his first term.

His campaign has largely been built around a message of economic recovery and continuity, with Hichilema describing Thursday's election as a choice between “progress or going backwards.”

After months of rallies across the country, the campaigning ends today. Tomorrow, voters will have their say.