Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in for a second term Tuesday, with the runner-up in last month’s election in jail on treason charges.
The Aug. 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 cheering supporters wearing the red colors 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% of the vote followed by former provincial government minister, Brian Mundubile, on 38%, according to official results.
Hichilema has been credited with steering Zambia through a major economic turnaround during his first five-year term, which started in 2021.
