Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has reflected on his party’s long struggle before taking power.
Hichilema said the United Party for National Development (UPND) endured years of opposition and political difficulties.
He made the remarks while addressing supporters after securing another presidential term.
“23 years in opposition resilient, we suffered the most brutality in this country! Now we are here people think they can push us out easily aaah Haikona mhani !”
The statement highlights the political journey that eventually took Hichilema and the UPND to State House.
Hichilema spent 23 years in opposition before winning the presidency in 2021.
He had contested several elections before defeating the then-ruling Patriotic Front candidate Edgar Lungu.
The UPND has now entered another phase after Hichilema secured a second term in the 2026 election.
Hichilema Remembers UPND’s Years in Opposition
Hichilema’s latest remarks focus heavily on the difficulties his party faced before gaining power.
He described those years as a period of resilience and suffering.
His comments also suggest that the UPND views its journey to power as hard-earned.
However, Zambia’s current political environment remains highly contested following the August election.
International observers raised concerns about aspects of the electoral process and treatment of opposition figures.
Hichilema was nevertheless inaugurated for a second five-year term on September 1.
HH “23 years in opposition resilient, we suffered the most brutality in this country! Now we are here people think they can push us out easily aaah Haikona mhani !”
where is Nevers Mumba and Joseph Kalimbwe and why are they silent @joseph_kalimbwe @bosskimhucci pic.twitter.com/Z9JalPGfKw
— The Patriarchy (@ChangaCC1980) September 24, 2026
UPND Begins Another Five-Year Term
The president now faces another five years in office after winning the election.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia declared Hichilema the winner with about 60% of the vote.
His government has highlighted economic reforms and debt restructuring from his first term.
Meanwhile, opposition figures have continued challenging aspects of the election and its aftermath.
Against that backdrop, Hichilema’s comments underline the importance he places on the UPND’s long political journey.
His message also signals that his party intends to remain firmly in control during its second term.
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