Hakainde Hichilema (born June 4, 1962) is a Zambian businessman, farmer, and politician serving as the seventh and current president of Zambia since August 24, 2021. After contesting five presidential elections between 2006 and 2016, Hichilema emerged victorious in the 2021 election, winning with 59.02% of the vote. He is the leader of the United Party for National Development (UPND), a position he has held since 2006 following the death of its founder, Anderson Mazoka.
Early Life and Education
Hakainde Hichilema was born in a village in Monze District, Zambia. Despite his humble beginnings, he secured a scholarship to study at the University of Zambia, graduating in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Business Administration. He later pursued an MBA in Finance and Business Strategy at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom, setting the foundation for his future success as a businessman.
Business Career
Hichilema’s career began in the private sector, where he held prominent leadership roles, including as the Chief Executive Officer of:
- Coopers and Lybrand Zambia (1994–1998)
- Grant Thornton Zambia (1998–2006)
As a businessman, he became one of Zambia’s most successful entrepreneurs, amassing wealth as a cattle rancher and investor. He is regarded as the second-largest cattle rancher in Zambia and one of the country’s leading economic minds.
Political Career
Entry into Politics
Hichilema joined politics after the death of Anderson Mazoka, becoming the president of the United Party for National Development (UPND) in 2006. His rise to leadership coincided with efforts to position UPND as a formidable opposition party in Zambia.
Presidential Elections
- 2006 Presidential Election: Representing the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Hichilema finished third with 25% of the vote.
- 2008 Presidential Election: After the death of President Levy Mwanawasa, Hichilema ran again and garnered 19.7%, placing third.
- 2011 Presidential Election: Despite forming a pact with the Patriotic Front (PF), disagreements led to its collapse, and Hichilema ran independently, losing to Michael Sata.
- 2015 and 2016 Elections: Hichilema contested against Edgar Lungu in closely contested elections, alleging electoral malpractice in both losses.
2021 Presidential Election Victory
In his sixth attempt, Hichilema defeated incumbent President Edgar Lungu with a decisive victory. His campaign focused on economic reform, combating corruption, and restoring democratic freedoms. His victory was celebrated as a return to democracy in Zambia after years of authoritarianism.
Challenges and Arrest
Arrest in 2017
Hichilema faced significant political persecution under Edgar Lungu’s regime. In April 2017, he was arrested and charged with treason after a motorcade incident involving President Lungu. The charges were widely viewed as politically motivated.
- Prison Conditions: Hichilema spent four months in solitary confinement under harsh conditions, alleging mistreatment and human rights violations.
- Global Condemnation: His arrest drew widespread international criticism, with protests in Zambia and abroad. Organizations like the United States, European Union, and Commonwealth called for his release.
- Release: On August 16, 2017, Hichilema was released, with charges dropped, boosting his popularity as a defender of democracy.
Presidency
Since taking office in August 2021, Hichilema has focused on:
- Economic Revival: Tackling Zambia’s debt crisis and fostering foreign investment.
- Good Governance: Strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law.
- Appointments: His administration emphasizes merit, with appointments reflecting competence and diversity.
- International Relations: Hichilema has revitalized Zambia’s global standing, making significant visits to key countries and institutions.
Awards and Recognition
- Africa Freedom Award (2017): Conferred by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation in recognition of his fight for democracy and human rights.
- Honorary Doctorates:
- 2023: Valley View University, Ghana
- 2024: Heriot-Watt University, Scotland
- 2024: University of Zambia
Personal Life
Hichilema is married to Mutinta, and they have three children. A devout member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, he is committed to his faith and community service. Despite accusations of being a Freemason, he has consistently denied these claims, describing them as politically motivated attacks.
Legacy and Impact
Hakainde Hichilema’s journey from a rural upbringing to the presidency epitomizes resilience and determination. As a leader, he remains focused on restoring Zambia’s democratic principles and improving the livelihoods of its citizens. His presidency is widely seen as a turning point in Zambia’s history, offering hope for a more prosperous and equitable future.
