Zambians vote in crucial election

Polling stations have opened as six million, six hundred and ninety eighty, three hundred seventy two Zambians vote in the general election to elect new leaders.

Polling stations opened at 06:00 hours with people queuing up at some polling stations in Lusaka as early as 04:30 hours.

Zambians are electing the president, 156 members of parliament, Mayors, Council Chairpersons and councilors.

They are also voting in the referendum on the bill of rights which has expanded rights.

Polls are expected to close at 18:00 hours with preliminary election results expected to trickle in around 20:00hours.