Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has been sworn in for a second five-year term following a disputed election, while his main political opponent remains in detention on treason charges.

Hichilema, 64, secured about 60% of the vote in the 13 August presidential election, according to official results, defeating opposition candidate Brian Mundubile, who received 38%. Mundubile rejected the result and alleged that the vote had been manipulated, raising questions about the election's legitimacy and its impact on Zambia's political stability.

His ability to challenge the outcome in court was effectively hampered after courts were sealed off on the final day for filing an election petition for security reasons, according to the government. International observers said polling was generally peaceful but raised concerns about vote counting and verification.

European Union election observers reported that officials at many tallying centres failed to record results on tally sheets immediately after announcing them. They also cited weak checks between digital results and paper records, while returning officers frequently suspended proceedings while awaiting instructions from electoral headquarters.

A crackdown on the opposition has followed the disputed election, raising concerns about political stability and the need to treat all citizens fairly.

Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, subsequently went into hiding before being detained by police and charged with treason.

Hichilema did not directly address his opponent's detention during his inauguration speech at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka. Instead, he called for political differences to be handled peacefully.

"Democracy does not require us to agree on everything. It requires us to respect one another even when we disagree," he said.

He also urged the opposition to cooperate with his administration, promising to listen to constructive ideas. His running mate, Mutale Nalumango, was sworn in as vice-president.

The inauguration drew thousands of supporters and several African leaders, including the presidents of Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Tanzania.

Hichilema's second term marks a crucial phase for Zambia's future, aiming to build on recent economic recovery and inspire confidence.

His government subsequently negotiated a restructuring of Zambia's debt and improved relations with international creditors. Inflation has fallen substantially, which can help stabilise prices, but the high cost of living remains a major concern for many Zambians and affects their daily lives.

Hichilema emphasises that Zambia must transition from stabilisation to stronger growth, aiming to boost confidence in the country's economic future.

"We are moving from stabilisation to growth," he said during his inauguration. "The next five years is all about growth and prosperity for all our people."

Copper remains central to Zambia's economic prospects. The World Bank estimates that the metal accounts for roughly 15% of GDP and more than 70% of exports. Rising copper prices have strengthened investor confidence and could further support the government's growth ambitions.

However, the political controversy surrounding the election and the detention of opposition leaders present significant challenges for Hichilema's second term. How his government manages political dissent and maintains stability will likely influence Zambia's international reputation and its ability to attract foreign investment over the next five years.