Zambia’s upcoming presidential election on Thursday is drawing near, and President Hakainde Hichilema is vigorously campaigning to secure his position. According to ‘africanews.com’, nearly half of the registered voters in Zambia are between the ages of 18 and 35, indicating that the youth could play a decisive role in the outcome of the election. Recognizing this, Hichilema has turned his attention to rallying support from students.

On Monday, Hichilema was in the capital, Lusaka, where he addressed students, urging them to take part in his campaign. He said, ‘Are you ready to campaign? Campaign at the schools, colleges, in the rooms to your roommates, at the market when you are buying something, campaign in the bus — everywhere.’ This call to action suggests that Hichilema is keen on leveraging the influence of young voters across various platforms and public spaces.

Hichilema is not without competition; he faces 13 other candidates, with his main challenger, Brian Mundubile, gaining significant momentum. Mundubile’s campaign has been bolstered by the support of a coalition of rival parties, making him a formidable contender.

The election is not just about choosing a leader; it is also a referendum on Hichilema’s economic reforms. Voters will be tasked with deciding whether to give Hichilema a second chance to continue his reforms or to opt for the opposition, who hope to capitalize on the widespread discontent over the high cost of living. Additionally, the election will serve as a test of Zambia’s political stability, especially considering the violence that has marred some parts of the campaign.

The stakes are high for both Hichilema and the opposition, and the youth vote could very well be the determining factor in this pivotal election.