Zambians queue to cast their votes at a polling station in Lusaka, Thursday, Aug. 11, 2016 in a tight election race for president and parliament that has been marred by violence between rival factions. There were no early reports of unrest during voting in a country whose peaceful transitions of power in the past have been held up as a democratic model in Africa. (AP Photo/Moses Mwape)

Polls close in Zambia after tight presidential race

LUSAKA, Zambia – The polls have closed in Zambia’s presidential election after a large turnout.

Many voters were choosing between incumbent President Edgar Lungu of the ruling Patriotic Front party or opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development.

Leader of the African Union observer mission and former Nigerian President Goodkuck Jonathan said he was happy with the process so far.

“Zambians are known to be peaceful. We encourage to continue maintaining that standard,” he said.

The winner is expected to be announced within 24 hours.

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