President Ruto congratulates Zambia's Hichilema on re-election

Zambia's electoral commission announced on Tuesday that Hichilema won with 60 per cent of votes cast on August 13, defeating 13 challengers.

In a statement on Tuesday, President Ruto lauded Hichilema's victory, saying it will anchor his "visionary leadership" towards developing the nation.

"Your resounding and decisive victory is a testament to your unwavering dedication, perseverance and commitment to the advancement of Zambia," President Ruto.

He added that his victory will strengthen bilateral ties between Zambia and Kenya and will expand cooperation between the two States.

"Kenya holds its relations with the Republic of Zambia in high esteem. Over the years, our two countries have fostered deep and enduring cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels," he added.

Hichilema, 64, vowed to work for the citizens and dedicate his presidency to advancing development and growth of the nation. He has been in power since 2021.

"We are truly humbled by the trust you have placed in our hands. To those citizens who preferred the ideas presented by our opponents, we hear you, and we will continue to work for you," he said.

He was followed by 55-year-old Brian Mundubile, a first-time presidential contender, garnering 38 per cent of the vote.

Mundubile has alleged there had been irregularities in the counting, claiming that documents listing the results had been tampered with, which he said risked the "integrity" of the tally.