President William Ruto has congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema after he secured a second term in office following Zambia’s August 13 presidential election.

Ruto shared a congratulatory message on his X account on Tuesday, August 18, shortly after the Electoral Commission of Zambia announced Hichilema as the winner.

Official results put Hichilema at about 61 percent of the vote, comfortably ahead of his main challenger, Brian Mundubile, who secured about 38 percent.

In his message, Ruto congratulated Hichilema and the people of Zambia on what he described as a “resounding and decisive victory.”

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

The Kenyan President further linked Hichilema’s victory to the confidence placed in his leadership by Zambians, saying the outcome was “an affirmation of the trust and confidence that the people of Zambia have placed in your visionary leadership towards advancing the nation’s development and prosperity.”

Ruto Highlights Kenya-Zambia Relations

Ruto used the occasion to underline the longstanding relationship between Kenya and Zambia, describing the southern African nation as both a “brotherly nation” and an important regional partner.

“Kenya holds its relations with the Republic of Zambia in high esteem,” Ruto said, noting that the two countries have developed “deep and enduring cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels.”

He added that Kenya considers Zambia “not only as a brotherly nation, but also as a valuable partner and ally in the region.”

Ruto said he looked forward to working closely with Hichilema during his second term to deepen cooperation between the two countries.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with you to further solidify and broaden the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations,” he stated.

Hichilema Secures Second Term

Hichilema, who first became president in 2021, defeated a field of challengers led by Mundubile. His re-election extends his mandate as he seeks to build on his administration’s economic reforms and recovery efforts.

The election, however, was not without controversy. Opposition figures raised allegations of irregularities, arrests and political intimidation, while vote counting was temporarily suspended after reports of attacks on election officials and theft of ballot papers.

Despite the concerns, the Electoral Commission proceeded to announce Hichilema as the winner.

In his message, Ruto wished Hichilema success in his second term and called for continued peace, unity and prosperity for the Zambian people.

“I wish you every success in your second term in office and continued peace, unity and prosperity for the people of Zambia,” Ruto said.