New Delhi, August 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election. He emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening its multifaceted partnership with Zambia.
In a post on the social media platform X, Modi wrote, “Heartfelt congratulations to President Hakainde Hichilema on being re-elected as President of Zambia. India values its multifaceted partnership with Zambia and looks forward to working together to further strengthen our ties under his leadership.”
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) announced the official results of the presidential election on Tuesday, declaring Hichilema the winner. The commission’s chairperson, Mwangaala Zaloumis, revealed the results at the national election results center in the capital, Lusaka.
According to the commission, Hichilema, the candidate from the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), received over 2.9 million valid votes, accounting for more than 50 percent of the total votes. This achievement secured him the necessary majority to win outright without a runoff election. Although results from some constituencies were still pending, the electoral commission clarified that this would not affect the overall election outcome.
Vote counting was temporarily halted on Friday due to incidents of violence and ballot theft at some polling stations. Counting resumed once the security situation stabilized.
Hakainde Hichilema first assumed the presidency in August 2021 after a decisive victory in the general elections.
India and Zambia have maintained a long-standing friendship and cordial relations. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, diplomatic ties were established between the two countries shortly after Zambia gained independence in 1964. Over the past six decades, India has emerged as a reliable partner and friend to Zambia, with their relationship based on mutual respect and reciprocal benefit.
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