Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema experienced one of the sharpest public rebukes of his presidency on Saturday when a planned solidarity visit to Chingola turned unexpectedly violent. What was intended to be a compassionate outreach to traders affected by a market fire quickly descended into chaos, revealing growing frustration in a region once considered politically loyal.
Upon arriving in the Copperbelt Province, Hichilema sought to console traders whose stalls and goods had been destroyed. But instead of the anticipated warm reception, he encountered a crowd vocal about unmet promises, joblessness, and the stagnating economy. Witnesses said irritation grew steadily, and just minutes into his speech, some residents began shouting about the government’s failure to deliver employment opportunities. Tempers soon escalated, culminating in stones being hurled at the presidential podium.
Security officials shielded the president and hurried him from the area. As his convoy exited Chingola, the unrest intensified: a police vehicle was set ablaze, along with carpets and a tent prepared for the address. Although Hichilema was unharmed, the dramatic confrontation has deepened scrutiny of his leadership ahead of 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,” announcing that 13 suspects had been arrested, with more arrests expected as investigations continue.
Responding later in Kitwe, Hichilema labelled the assault “an act of lawlessness” and urged citizens to express their frustrations peacefully. He maintained that Chingola had benefitted significantly from government programmes and warned residents “not to push their luck.”
His firm tone underscores the administration’s struggle to balance public discontent with increasing accusations of authoritarianism. Political opponents argue that Saturday’s events reveal far deeper national cracks. National Renewal Movement leader John Sangwa described the unrest as a symptom of “a deeper national crisis marked by the erosion of civic order and weakened state institutions.” Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe attributed the anger to economic despair, noting that disillusioned youths “have been promised many things… nothing is being fulfilled, frustration sets in.”
As Zambia approaches its next general election, analysts warn that the Copperbelt incident may be emblematic of fading optimism in Hichilema’s governance. The president, once celebrated as a reformist, now faces criticism for heavy-handed tactics. UN human rights rapporteurs have accused his administration of using arbitrary arrests and detentions to silence dissenting voices.
Saturday’s confrontation has undoubtedly heightened political tensions, spotlighting an electorate grappling with economic strain, youth frustration, and diminishing confidence. Whether Hichilema can rebuild trust in the months ahead may determine not only the outcome of the next election but also the stability of the nation in a defining moment.