Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has thanked Zambians for renewing their trust in him, pledging to focus on development, unity and prosperity during his second term.

In a message following his victory in the presidential election, Hichilema said the election had demonstrated Zambia’s commitment to peace, democracy and the rule of law.

“This election showed the world who we are: a nation of peace, a nation of law and order, a democratic nation that settles our differences at the ballot box, and nowhere else,” he said.

Hichilema said his campaign across all 116 districts gave him first-hand insight into the challenges facing citizens, adding that his administration would work with Zambians to address them.

He also reached out to citizens who supported opposition candidates, saying his government would continue working to ensure that every Zambian benefits from national development.

“To those citizens who preferred the ideas presented by our opponents, we hear you, and we will continue to work for you to ensure that every Zambian benefits from the development we are delivering,” Hichilema said.

He pledged to devote his second term to accelerating development and progress, strengthened by unity, cooperation and a shared national purpose.

“Now we must work harder than ever before to deliver meaningful development for every single Zambian, in every corner of our country,” he said.

Hichilema concluded by calling for continued unity and peace, reaffirming the country’s motto: “One Zambia, One Nation, One people.”