Zambia

Zambia adopted a new constitution. General elections were held. Incumbent president Edgar Lungu of the Patriotic Front (PF) polled over the 50% needed for re-election but the results were challenged by the runner-up Hakainde Hichilema, candidate of the United Party for National Development (UPND). Post-electoral violence escalated in UPND strongholds. The PF secured a majority of parliamentary seats for the first time, while the first direct elections for mayors/council chairpersons revealed a clear balance between the PF and the UPND. The referendum on a new Bill of Rights failed. Lungu’s international trips intensified with the strategic goals of attracting foreign investors and strengthening bilateral relations with key partners in Africa and the Middle East. Conditions for economic growth remained tough. The electricity supply deficit continued to affect households, mining activities and other business. The currency improved and copper prices increased. ; info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion