Hakainde Hichilema

Hichilema founded the UPND after leaving the United Liberal Party. The party became the main opposition to the Patriotic Front government, positioning Hichilema as a leading opposition figure.

Hichilema was arrested and charged with treason after his convoy allegedly failed to give way to President Edgar Lungu's motorcade. He spent four months in prison before the charges were dropped, drawing international criticism.

Hichilema won the presidential election with 59% of the vote, defeating incumbent Edgar Lungu. The election was widely praised as free and fair, marking the first peaceful transfer of power to an opposition candidate since 1991.

Hichilema's government implemented austerity measures, debt restructuring negotiations with international creditors, and anti-corruption campaigns. The program aimed to stabilize Zambia's economy after years of high debt and inflation.