Lungani Zungu
Zambian President Edgar Lungu was in secret talks this weekend about handing over power after losing the election.
The results are still being counted, but the writing is on the wall, with opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema clearly ahead.
Political sources in Lusaka said that former President Rupiah Banda is brokering talks with Lungu, whose demands apparently include immunity from prosecution.
Lungu would likely face a barrage of corruption charges, so he wants to make sure he is safe before handing over power.
The Zambian opposition has already called on the president of six years to concede defeat.
“We ask you to act as a statesman, by conceding quickly to your brother Hakainde Hichilema, so that the process of handing over power and reconciliation of this country can begin,” said Charles Melupi, representing an alliance of ten opposition parties.
Lungu’s negotiations are secret and not confirmed. In public, the 65-year-old leader of the Patriotic Front has been crying foul play.
“The results are not free and fair in three provinces,” he said in a statement on Saturday.
But the backers of Hichilema, 59, leader of the United Party for National Development, were already celebrating.
Of the 17 million people who make up the Zambian population, around seven million registered to vote.
According to results released by the Electoral Commission of Zambia, Hichilema led with 1,024,212 votes, while Lungu followed with 562,523.
The voting was marred by violent protests, prompting the government to deploy the military.
Amid threats of more violence, Hichilema calmed his supporters on social media.
“With victory in sight, I’d like to ask for calm from our members and supporters,” he said.
“We voted for change for a better Zambia that’s free from violence and discrimination. Let us be the change we voted for and embrace the spirit of ubuntu.”
Official results were expected to be announced by the end of the week.
Image source: @Mwebantu
