Zambian president, leader of economic reform
The South African Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that the Zambian government cannot override the late President Edgar Lungu’s family’s burial wishes. The decision, reported today, overturns a Gauteng High Court ruling and leaves the former leader’s body in South Africa while legal disputes continue. The family says the deceased would not have wanted a state funeral led by Hichilema.
The UN and world powers are pressing for governance reform as demand for critical minerals rises. Leaders warn that without local processing and stronger rule of law, mining profits will bypass local communities and fuel conflict. New commitments aim to channel wealth into public services and jobs amid a global scramble for cobalt, lithium, nickel and rare earths.
The Electoral Commission has paused vote counting amid reports of violence and theft of ballot papers. Bishops warn that delays undermine election credibility, while the government and opposition accuse each other of irregularities. Official results are expected soon as observers monitor the process.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has cast his vote in Lusaka, launching a one-day election that will decide his bid for a second term amid concerns over rising living costs. Voters are also choosing Parliament members and local councilors; results are expected on Monday. Hichilema faces 13 challengers, with opposition leader Brian Mundubile seen as his main rival.
Opposition challenger Brian Mundubile has been questioned over alleged crimes linked to the party in an event tied to Friday’s raid in Lusaka. Authorities say the operation involved high-grade weapons and military plans, while Mundubile claims an attack on his life and reports of shootings. Results from the vote show Mundubile trailing the incumbents as the investigation unfolds.
Zambia’s presidential election has produced a lead for Hichilema with nearly 59% of counted votes; observers note irregularities and violence, including a halted tally. Final results are expected in coming days amid allegations of armed interference and questions about fairness.
Algeria is confronting a severe heatwave that has intensified wildfires across the northern provinces, causing multiple deaths and injuries. Officials report dozens of blazes, with Bejaia, Jijel and Tizi Ouzou among the hardest hit; hundreds have been evacuated as firefighting efforts continue.
Security forces are conducting a coordinated rescue operation after mass abductions in Niger State. Reports indicate hundreds of victims and rising kidnap-for-ransom incidents; authorities vow to pursue those responsible.
Voters in Guinea‑Bissau have approved a new constitution that shifts the country from a semi‑presidential to a stronger presidential system, with provisional results showing about 70% support and turnout near 55–60%. The charter gives the president power to appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet, create or abolish ministries and dissolve parliament ahead of December elections.
Zambia’s president has inaugurated a new term amid ongoing tensions after August elections. Observers flag uneven counting and concerns over the conduct, while opposition leaders face treason charges and arrests. Calls for unity contrast with reports of intimidation and legal challenges.