Zambians went to the polls Thursday in an election focused on economic hardships in the copper-rich nation, where President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term.

With nearly 70 percent of Zambia's population under the age of 30, the youth vote is expected to play a decisive role in determining the country's next government.

Economic recovery, youth turnout, women's representation and judicial independence are among the issues shaping Zambia's vote on Thursday.