Zambian President Hichilema pelted with stones

What began as a community engagement visit quickly turned chaotic yesterday when Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was pelted with stones and booed by a furious crowd in Chingola, Copperbelt Province - a dramatic reflection of his waning popularity amid growing public frustration over unfulfilled promises and economic hardship.

The incident took place at Chiwempala Market, which had recently suffered a devastating fire. Hichilema, who came to power in 2021 on a wave of optimism and reformist rhetoric, was addressing residents when parts of the crowd reportedly turned hostile, shouting slogans before hurling stones towards the podium.

Security personnel swiftly intervened and escorted the President to safety, as the situation degenerated into rioting and vandalism.

Eyewitnesses said some protesters chased after the Presidential motorcade, pelting vehicles with stones. In the ensuing chaos, a police Land Cruiser was overturned and torched, while a presidential tent and several portable toilets were destroyed.

The Zambia Police Service confirmed the violence, describing it as "riotous behaviour leading to damage of property and acts of arson." Two suspects have been arrested, and investigations are ongoing.

"We can confirm that there were incidents of disorder during the President's visit. Law enforcement responded promptly, and calm has since been restored," a police spokesperson said in a brief statement.

The violent outburst is being seen as a serious political warning to President Hichilema, whose administration faces mounting criticism over economic stagnation, rising cost of living, and tensions in the mining sector - particularly on the Copperbelt, a region once considered his stronghold.

Many Zambians say Hichilema's promises to tackle corruption, reduce unemployment, and attract investment have fallen short, while his government's relations with miners and small traders have deteriorated.

"People expected real change, but they are still hungry and jobless," said one local trader. "Now they're angry."

The backlash also follows Hichilema's controversial endorsement of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan's recent election - an event marred by allegations of repression, arrests, and violence. Critics say the move undermined Hichilema's reputation as a pro-democracy reformer and alienated supporters who once saw him as a symbol of democratic renewal in Southern Africa.

Political observers say the Chingola incident is a turning point in Zambia's political climate, signalling growing disillusionment that could reshape the country's leadership narrative ahead of the 2026 general elections.

"Hichilema's honeymoon is over," said Lusaka-based analyst Dr. Sitali Mwansa. "He entered office as a beacon of hope, but frustration has reached a boiling point - and yesterday's violence was a clear manifestation of that anger."