PM Modi Congratulates Hichilema On Zambia Win, Eyes Stronger India Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election as the President of Zambia, saying India deeply values its multifaceted partnership with the African nation and looks forward to taking bilateral ties to greater heights.

In a message posted on X, Modi extended his “heartiest congratulations” to Hichilema, who has secured a second five-year term as Zambia’s President.

“India greatly values its multifaceted partnership with Zambia and I look forward to working together to further strengthen our relations under his leadership,” the Prime Minister said.

Hichilema was declared the winner of Zambia’s August 13 presidential election, securing 61.4 per cent of the vote, according to the election results. His main rival, opposition leader Brian Mundubile, received about 38 per cent and has since announced plans to challenge the outcome in court, alleging irregularities in the electoral process. The post-election period has also seen heightened political tensions and arrests of opposition figures.

Despite the political turbulence surrounding the election, congratulations have continued to arrive from world leaders. Modi’s message underlined New Delhi’s intention to maintain momentum in its engagement with Zambia, an important African partner with growing strategic and economic significance.

The Prime Minister’s Office said India attaches great importance to its broad-based relationship with Zambia and that Modi looks forward to working closely with Hichilema during his new term to further strengthen bilateral cooperation.

The re-election gives Hichilema another five years in office, even as Zambia faces the challenge of navigating political tensions at home and pursuing economic recovery and investment-driven growth.