Zambia's ex-president Lungu dies at 68
Former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has died at the age of 68. His death was confirmed while he was receiving specialized medical treatment in Pretoria, South Africa. Lungu had been suffering from a rare esophageal disorder known as achalasia, which had affected his ability to swallow and required extensive care abroad.
Lungu served as the sixth president of Zambia, assuming office in January 2015 following the death of President Michael Sata. Initially elected in a by-election, he secured a full term in the 2016 general elections. During his presidency, Lungu focused on infrastructure development, especially in road construction and energy. However, his administration faced significant challenges, including growing national debt, economic instability, and increasing criticism for authoritarian tendencies. In 2020, Zambia became the first African country to default on its Eurobond debt during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2021, Lungu lost the presidential election to Hakainde Hichilema, marking a peaceful transfer of power. He initially announced retirement from active politics but returned in 2023, taking a leadership role in the opposition Tonse Alliance. His comeback was short-lived, as Zambia’s Constitutional Court ruled in December 2024 that he could not run for office again. The court considered his partial first term and full second term as two terms, which is the constitutional limit.
Lungu’s death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from across Zambia and the wider African region. Political leaders, religious figures, and ordinary citizens have paid tribute to his leadership, patriotism, and contributions to national development. He is survived by his wife, Esther Lungu, and their six children. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon by the family and the Patriotic Front party.
