Zambia Mourns the Passing of Former President Edgar Lungu at 68

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has died in South Africa at age 68, amid a background of political strife and court battles over his eligibility to run for office again. His presidency has been critiqued for its handling of freedom of expression and increased national debt.

Former President Edgar Lungu of Zambia has passed away at a medical facility in South Africa, where he was undergoing treatment. His political party, the Patriotic Front, along with his daughter, confirmed the news on Thursday, stating that Lungu, aged 68, had been under medical supervision in recent weeks, although specific details regarding his condition were not disclosed.

Lungu, the sixth president of Zambia, held office from 2015 until 2021, when he faced defeat in his re-election bid. His presidency saw considerable infrastructure investment, which critics argue contributed to soaring national debt levels. During his tenure, the administration was accused of curtailing freedoms, employing emergency measures to quash dissent amid increasing civil unrest.

After losing the election to current president Hakainde Hichilema, Lungu stepped back from the political scene but later sought to re-enter politics as the leader of a coalition that included the Patriotic Front. However, a ruling by Zambia’s Constitutional Court in December deemed him ineligible for another presidential run, citing that he had already served two terms. This decision has been viewed by some analysts as politically motivated, particularly after Hichilema removed justices who had previously ruled against him.

Lungu's death adds complexity to Zambia's political landscape as the nation grapples with recollections of his time in power and the implications of ongoing political tensions.