Edgar Lungu, who served as Zambia's president from 2015 to 2021, has died at 68. His family announced that he was receiving specialized medical care prior to his passing, invoking a national sense of unity during a time of grief.
Zambia Mourns the Loss of Former President Edgar Lungu
Zambia Mourns the Loss of Former President Edgar Lungu
The former Zambian leader passed away in South Africa after battling an undisclosed illness, leaving behind a complex political legacy.
Zambia is in mourning following the death of former President Edgar Lungu at the age of 68, as confirmed by his party, the Patriotic Front. Lungu had "been receiving specialized treatment in South Africa" for an undisclosed illness. He served as Zambia’s leader for six years from 2015 before losing the 2021 election to current President Hakainde Hichilema by a significant margin.
After stepping back from the political arena post-defeat, Lungu hinted at aspirations for a potential presidential run in the future. His daughter, Tasila, shared the news of his passing, stating he died at 06:00 (04:00 GMT) on Thursday after being "under medical supervision in recent weeks."
"In this moment of grief, we invoke the spirit of 'One Zambia, One Nation' - the timeless creed that guided President Lungu's service to our country," she emphasized in a heartfelt video statement.
The nation reflects on his contributions and the political legacy he leaves behind as they navigate this challenging moment in their history.
