Zambians are voting to elect a president and parliament in a contest viewed as a test of the country’s democratic stability. President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term, arguing that he has overseen an economic recovery, while voters remain concerned about unemployment, high living costs and alleged pressures on political freedoms.

More than eight million people are registered to vote, with polls open from 06:00 to 18:00 local time. Although 14 candidates are standing, the race is chiefly between Hichilema, 64, and former minister Brian Mundubile; a candidate needs more than 50% to avoid a run-off within 37 days. Political tensions have also been heightened by the continuing dispute over the burial of former President Edgar Lungu, who died more than a year ago.