President Hakainde Hichilema, who has been in power since 2021, faced off against Brian Mundubile, a 55-year-old former minister in the previous Patriotic Front (PF) government.

“The violence is targeted at poll staff, and in some instances has resulted in the theft of marked ballot papers in ballot boxes,” chief electoral officer Brown Kasaro said, adding that the commission would review the suspension within 24 hours.

Mundubile claimed victory on Thursday, while Hichilema said his team was receiving “encouraging results”.

“Let us remain peaceful, patient and patriotic as we await the official outcome from those entrusted with managing the vote,” Hichilema posted on social media.

Some 8.7 million people were registered to vote. They were also electing 226 seats in parliament, which is being expanded from the previous 156.

Official presidential results were expected on Monday.