Zambia’s President, Hakainde Hichilema, has recalled his party’s long struggle from the trenches of opposition to ascending to power after two decades of near misses and election malpractices.

Speaking at the swearing-in of Samia Suluhu on Monday, November 3, 2025, Hichilema, who ascended to power as President of Zambia on August 24, 2021, as the sixth head of state, recalled his and the opposition’s political journey.

“Our political party in Zambia was in opposition for 33 years. I led the movement for 15 years and lost the elections. I had motivation to go to the street when we felt cheated, but I said no one goes to the streets. Those who supported us genuinely felt betrayed. I remained firm that I could not take our men and women on the streets, as their blood would be on my head,” he stated.

In a story of political triumph, Hichilema’s United Party for National Development (UPND) overcame years of heartache to rise to power on his fifth stab at the presidency.

He used the occasion to deliver a powerful appeal for peace and stability in the East African nation and a member of the SADC.

Hakainde urged the country to avoid escalation, warning of the dire consequences of unchecked violence ravaging the East African region and the entire continent. 

“Today, we are privileged to lead our country. We inherited a peaceful country, and we have to leave a peaceful country to the generation to come in peace. That is my call to the brothers of Tanzania,“ he said.

His message mirrors the appeals made by his Kenyan counterpart, William Ruto.

In his congratulatory message to Samia Suluhu moments after her swearing in for a new term in office, Ruto called on citizens and political actors to maintain peace and uphold the rule of law.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I extend sincere congratulations to Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election in the General Election held on 29 October 2025,” Ruto said, highlighting the strong diplomatic and historical ties between the two nations.