Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed gratitude and humility after being granted another mandate to lead the United Party for National Development (UPND) and being confirmed as the party’s Presidential candidate ahead of the upcoming general elections scheduled for August 13, 2026.
President Hichilema made the announcement in a statement shared on his official Facebook page following the party’s General Assembly held on Wednesday.
Hichilema Thanks UPND Members for Renewed Confidence
In his message, President Hichilema said he and the party leadership were deeply humbled by the trust and confidence shown by UPND members.
“We are deeply humbled to have been granted another mandate to lead our great party, the UPND, and to be confirmed as its Presidential candidate for the elections scheduled for August 13 this year,” Hichilema stated.
UPND General Assembly Reflects on Achievements and Future Work
President Hichilema explained that during his acceptance speech at the party’s General Assembly, he reflected on the progress achieved under the UPND government over the past five years, while acknowledging that more work still needs to be done.
He emphasized that the party has already established a firm foundation for national development.
“In our acceptance speech at the Party’s General Assembly this afternoon, we reflected on the progress we have made, while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead. Together, we have laid a firm foundation. The direction is clear,” he said.
“Use Gains of the Past Five Years to Build Lasting Prosperity”
President Hichilema stated that his mission going forward is to build on the achievements recorded since 2021 and use them to move Zambia forward toward long-term economic growth and national prosperity.
“Our mission is to use the gains of the past five years to take our country forward and build lasting prosperity for the Zambian people,” he said.
Hichilema Pledges Commitment to Deliver for Zambia
The President reaffirmed his commitment to deliver development, stating that his leadership is motivated by love and care for the country.
“We are committed to deliver because we love and care for our country. Let’s deliver Zambia’s harvest together,” he said.
August 13 Election Campaign Momentum
Hichilema’s confirmation as UPND presidential candidate officially sets the tone for the party’s campaign preparations ahead of the August 13, 2026 elections, where Zambians will once again head to the polls to elect the President, Members of Parliament and councillors.
The statement has since attracted widespread reactions online, with supporters praising his leadership while others closely monitor the unfolding political environment as the election season approaches.
