MWE Correspondent
Former President of Zambia, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, has died at the age of 68. His death was confirmed on Thursday, June 5, by his daughter Tasila Lungu-Mwansa and a family lawyer, following his passing at a medical facility in Pretoria, South Africa.
Lungu had been undergoing treatment for achalasia, a rare esophageal condition that had affected his health for several years. He reportedly suffered complications during surgery, ultimately leading to his death.
Lungu’s political career began in earnest in the early 2000s after he joined the Patriotic Front, the party founded by the late President Michael Sata. When Sata died in office in 2014, Lungu rose to the presidency after winning a by-election in January 2015. He was later re-elected for a full term in 2016.
While in office, Lungu oversaw major infrastructure development, including road projects and the expansion of public facilities. However, his time in power was not without controversy. His government faced increasing criticism over alleged corruption and human rights violations, particularly around the suppression of opposition voices. Zambia’s economy also struggled during his administration, and in 2020 the country became the first African nation to default on its sovereign debt during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lungu lost the 2021 election to Hakainde Hichilema, who now serves as President. After initially retiring from politics, Lungu attempted a comeback in 2023 by aligning himself with opposition movements. This decision led the government to revoke his retirement benefits, which under Zambian law are forfeited if a former president returns to active politics (Africanews).
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In December 2024, the Constitutional Court ruled that Lungu was ineligible to run in future presidential elections, citing the two-term limit enshrined in Zambia’s constitution. Though he publicly accepted the ruling, Lungu voiced concern over what he saw as political interference.
Despite political setbacks, Lungu remained an influential figure in Zambian society. His sudden death has sparked a wave of condolences from leaders across the region. President Hichilema expressed sympathy and acknowledged Lungu’s contributions to Zambia’s development.
Lungu had faced several health scares in recent years. In 2024, he collapsed during a public event due to what was described as a hypoglycemic episode—a complication linked to his chronic esophageal illness.
He is survived by his wife, Esther Lungu, and their six children, including Tasila Lungu-Mwansa, a Member of Parliament representing Chawama constituency.
