Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was leading the presidential election with about 62% of valid votes in partial results covering roughly 71% of constituencies, while his main challenger, Brian Mundubile, had about 36%, according to preliminary figures.

Hichilema, who is seeking a second term, had secured more than 1.5 million votes at the time of the latest count. His campaign has highlighted measures including Zambia’s debt restructuring, efforts to revive the mining sector and the expansion of free public education.

Mundubile, 55, had earlier declared victory and alleged electoral irregularities without providing evidence, according to the BBC. The opposition candidate has questioned the credibility of the voting process as counting continues.

Recently, Zambian authorities stated that 11 people had been arrested during a joint security operation in Lusaka’s Kabulonga area targeting people suspected of links to militia activities and other alleged offences.

Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa said weapons, ammunition and other materials were seized during the operation. The government alleged that some of those detained were linked to illegal military training camps and plans involving foreign nationals.

The statement said several senior political party members were present at the premises during the operation, including presidential candidate Mundubile. The 11 detainees face various criminal charges, while investigations are continuing.

Authorities further alleged that people at the premises exchanged fire with security forces during the operation. The circumstances surrounding the incident could not be independently verified from the information available.

The government said relatives and lawyers of those detained would be granted access to them as the investigation proceeds.