Former Zambia President Edgar Lungu dies at 68

By Joseph Dumbula

Zambia's former President Edgar Lungu has died at the age of 68, according to his party, the Patriotic Front .

Lungu had been receiving specialized treatment in South Africa for an undisclosed illness.

He led Zambia for six years, from 2015 to 2021, before losing the election to current President Hakainde Hichilema.

Lungu's daughter, Tasila, confirmed his passing in a video statement, saying he died at a clinic in Pretoria.

She remembered her father's service to the country, invoking the spirit of "One Zambia, One Nation".

Lungu's presidency was marked by significant infrastructure development, but he also faced criticism for the country's struggling economy and high unemployment .

 After losing the 2021 election, Lungu initially stepped back from politics but returned to the forefront in 2023.

The Constitutional Court had barred Lungu from running for presidency again in 2026, citing the two-term limit .

Lungu's passing has sent shockwaves through Zambia's political landscape, with tributes and condolences pouring in from across the country.

Meanwhile former Malawi President Peter Mutharika has sent condolences to Zambians.

Posting on Facebook, Mutharika described Lungu as a wise leader with whom he shared knowledge when both were presidents of the neighboring South African nations.