### HAKAINDE HICHILEMA: leadership in crisis and the quest for fragile power
While the general elections in Zambia were looming on the horizon in 2026, President Hakande Hichilema faces a moment of political crisis which seems to be heavy with consequences, both for his administration and for the country. Elected in August 2021 as a Messiah by some, Hichilema now has the dilemma of confronting a period of uncertainties, tainted by uninformed promises and a popularity in decline.
#### Historical context and not held promises
Coming from a long political journey in the opposition, Hichilema had presented himself as a reformer, wishing to straighten a disillusioned nation by years of mismanagement and corruption under Edgar Lungu. Applauded for its intention to strengthen democracy and eradicate corruption, its recent actions raise questions about its ability to keep these commitments. Many are wondering: what happened between his ascent to power and the current situation?
The first decisions of his mandate, such as the repeal of the president’s defamation law, were greeted with enthusiasm. However, this positive dynamic seems to have been quickly reversed by repressive measures taken against his opponents, echoing practices which he previously denounced. How to explain this reversal of the situation? For some analysts, this could be a manifestation of the fear of losing power, which can lead leaders to adopt authoritarian behavior.
#### Fear and corruption: a vicious circle
Fear, as Aung San Suu Kyi noted, plays a central role in the dynamics of power. For Hichilema, the fear of losing this privileged position is accompanied by anxiety about a possible return of legal proceedings which could strike it, in particular for corruption and abuse of power. This mixture of fear and uncertainty can encourage repression policies, which exacerbate social and political tensions.
The decisions made in recent months by his administration, in particular the ban on demonstrations and the limitation of press freedom, reveal an increasing concern about the resilience of his government in the face of the protest. These measures affect the fundamental freedoms of the Zambians, question the country’s democratic health and underline the fragility of a power that seems more felt as a threat than a solution. What could be the impact of such an evolution on civil society and on critical discourse in Zambia?
### Refined control: the Constitution in play
One of the most worrying aspects of the current situation is Hichilema’s obvious will to control key institutions, in particular by manipulating the constitutional framework. His efforts to strengthen his stranglehold on Parliament and legal institutions could allow him to establish solid bases for his re -election, but this poses serious ethical and practical dilems.
The appointment of people considered to be loyal to influential positions, as at the head of the Zambia electoral commission, raises concerns about the equity and transparency of the coming elections. The proposed constitutional changes, which aim to increase the number of electoral districts and to relaunch the process of appointing deputies by the president, could be perceived as maneuvers to consolidate power instead of promoting a real representation of citizens.
#### Outlook for the future: towards a real democracy?
While Hichilema sails in this tumultuous sea of political pressure, he becomes crucial for his administration to think seriously about the implications of his decisions. The growing distrust of the population and the potential rise of a united opponent could encourage the president to consider real democratic reforms that would trust the Zambian people. The real test for Hichilema could reside in its ability to transform fear into dialogue and rebuild the legitimacy of its government by listening to the concerns of the Zambians.
Perhaps the key to success would reside in a return to the founding principles of its mandate: transparency, the fight against corruption and the promotion of human rights. Democracy is not limited to the simple organization of elections; It requires a sincere commitment to the people, respect for fundamental freedoms and a desire to establish a climate of trust.
Thus, Zambia is at a decisive crossroads. The question remains: Will Hakande Hichilema choose the path of reconciliation and reform, or will he continue to take the path of repression, condemning his country to persistent uncertainty? The political future of Zambia depends on this crucial decision.