Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema faced a rare and hostile confrontation on Saturday when residents in the mining town of Chingola threw stones at his podium during what State House had planned as a surprise solidarity visit. The incident, reported by local media, underscores growing frustration in a region once considered a core political base.
Hichilema had travelled to the Copperbelt Province to console traders after a fire tore through a local market, destroying stalls and merchandise. Rather than the warm reception his advisers anticipated, he was met with residents voicing longstanding grievances over youth unemployment, economic stagnation, and unmet campaign promises.
Crowd Anger Boils Over
Witnesses said tensions flared moments after Hichilema began addressing the crowd. Residents shouted that government pledges to expand opportunities and deliver jobs had not materialised. Minutes later, stones were hurled toward the podium, prompting security officials to shield the president and escort him away.
As his convoy departed Chingola, protests escalated. Demonstrators set fire to a police vehicle, carpets, and the tent intended for his address. While the president was unharmed, the incident has intensified scrutiny of his leadership as Zambia approaches next year’s general election.
Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu condemned the attack as “a heinous act and a threat to the president’s life.” He confirmed 13 suspects had been arrested and warned further detentions were likely as investigations proceed.
President Calls Incident ‘Lawlessness’
Speaking later in Kitwe, Hichilema described the assault as “an act of lawlessness,” urging citizens to express frustrations through peaceful means. He also cautioned Chingola residents “not to push their luck,” insisting that the area had benefited from the government’s development programmes.
His remarks reflect a firmer stance toward disorder, even as his administration faces criticism from opponents accusing him of adopting increasingly authoritarian measures.
Opposition: Unrest Signals Broader Crisis
Opposition leaders argued that the Chingola unrest reflects deeper national challenges. National Renewal Movement head John Sangwa told The Continent that the riots exposed “a deeper national crisis marked by the erosion of civic order and weakened state institutions.”
Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe linked the anger to economic despair: “Those young people have lost hope. They have been promised many things by their leaders—the same leaders they were stoning. Nothing is being fulfilled; frustration sets in.”
Elections Loom as Optimism Fades
With Zambia heading to polls next year, analysts suggest the Copperbelt unrest signals waning confidence in Hichilema’s leadership. Once hailed as a reformist, he now faces criticism over heavy-handed governance. UN human rights rapporteurs have accused his administration of “arbitrary arrests and detentions” targeting opposition figures, activists, and journalists.
Saturday’s confrontation may intensify political tensions in a country grappling with economic pressure, rising youth discontent, and a restless electorate. For many in the Copperbelt, the stoning marked a tipping point. For the president, it may serve as a stark reminder that the 2026 election will be a referendum on his record, promises, and ability to restore public trust.