President William Ruto has joined thousands of Zambians and several African leaders in Lusaka for the inauguration of President Hakainde Hichilema for his second term in office.
The National Heroes Stadium and surrounding areas were packed with jubilant crowds, many waving Zambian flags, singing and dancing as they waited for the ceremony to begin.
The large turnout created a colourful spectacle, with supporters arriving in party colours and traditional African attire.
Several African heads of state and senior government officials travelled to Zambia to witness Hichilema take the oath of office. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa is also among the regional leaders attending the ceremony.
Ruto had earlier congratulated Hichilema on his re-election, describing the victory as a sign of the confidence Zambians have placed in his leadership.
“Your resounding and decisive victory is a testament to your unwavering dedication, perseverance and commitment to the advancement of Zambia,” Ruto said.
The gathering has brought together political leaders, diplomats, government officials and ordinary citizens, turning the National Heroes Stadium into the centre of attention in Zambia.
Hichilema’s inauguration marks the beginning of his second five-year term after he secured re-election in the August 13 presidential election, defeating 13 challengers.
In his victory speech, Hichilema vowed to work for citizens and dedicate his presidency to advancing the country’s development and growth.
However, the inauguration comes against the backdrop of a political controversy involving opposition leader Brian Mundubile.
Mundubile, 55, a first-time presidential contender who finished second with 38 per cent of the vote, has been charged with treason, raising concerns over the government’s treatment of political dissent.
Police accuse Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, of posing a national security threat. Security forces raided Mundubile’s home a day after the election and said they found rifles and other military equipment.
The two have denied the allegations, dismissing claims of an armed insurgency as fabricated.