Zambia's Hichilema takes early lead in elections, electoral commission says
Zambia's Electoral Commission says President Hakainde Hichilema has taken an early lead as counting continues in his bid for a second term. The update follows earlier reports of violence disrupting the vote count.
Commission officials said the bulk of the count was complete, with final results expected in coming days. Opposition parties continue to raise questions about the transparency of the process.
Counting resumed after being briefly halted over reports of violence. International observers are monitoring efforts to see the process through peacefully.
Hichilema's early lead may signal that his promises of economic reform have resonated with voters. Reactions across the country will be watched closely once final results are announced.
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