Zambia votes in elections expected to favour incumbent Hichilema

LUSAKA, Aug 13 (Reuters) - Zambia goes to the polls on Thursday in a general election widely expected to give President Hakainde Hichilema a second term, although frustration over the cost of living may dent his support.

LUSAKA, Aug 13 - Zambia goes to the polls on Thursday in a general election widely expected to give President Hakainde Hichilema a second term, although frustration over the cost of living may dent his support.

14 candidates are throwing their hats in the ring to become Zambia’s next president in the upcoming election. Among them is main opposition challenger Brian Mundubile, seeking to defeat president Hakainde Hichilema.

President Hakainde Hichilema was elected five years ago, promising to protect civil liberties in his copper-rich African nation. Now, he’s accused of trampling on them.

Debt restructuring, inflation and copper revenues are emerging as key issues in the vote.

[Daily Trust] Zambians vote Thursday in a closely watched presidential election that will test whether recent economic gains can offset frustration over the high cost of living in one of Africa's most stable democracies.