Zambia president begins second term as rival faces treason charges

FILE: Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema

Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in for a second term Tuesday with the main opposition leader—who was the runner-up in last month’s elections—in jail on treason charges.

The August 13 ballot was marred by allegations of intimidation, pro-government bias and restrictions on the opposition, tarnishing the copper-rich country’s democratic reputation.

Thousands of people wearing the red colours of Hichilema’s UPND party packed the Lusaka stadium as he took the oath at a ceremony attended by a handful of African leaders.

The 64-year-old tycoon won 60 percent of the vote followed by former government minister Brian Mundubile on 38 percent, according to official results.