By Jones Gadama
Lusaka, Zambia – In a shocking turn of events, former President of Zambia Edgar Chagwa Lungu has passed away at the age of 68. The news was confirmed by Sean Tembo, a member of the Tonse Alliance of Zambia, on his Facebook page.
Tembo’s post read, “Unfortunately, we have lost the Tonse Alliance Chairman and 6th Republican President, His Excellency Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
According to reports, Lungu died on June 5, 2025, at Mediclinic Medforum in Pretoria, South Africa, where he was receiving treatment for chest complications.
Born on November 11, 1956, in Ndola, Lungu served as Zambia’s sixth president from January 26, 2015, to August 24, 2021.
During his tenure, he implemented various policies, including efforts to diversify the country’s economy beyond copper mining and promote alternative energy sources.
Early Life and Career
Lungu graduated with a law degree from the University of Zambia in 1981 and later joined politics.
He held several key positions, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Defence, before becoming president.
Presidential Term
Lungu’s presidency was marked by notable events, including a narrow victory over opposition candidate Hakainde Hichilema in the 2015 presidential by-election and a re-election bid in 2016. He lost his re-election bid in 2021 to Hichilema, conceding defeat and paving the way for a peaceful transfer of power.
Post-Presidency and Later Life
After leaving office, Lungu remained active in Zambian politics, returning to lead the Patriotic Front party despite controversies surrounding his eligibility to run for president again due to term limits.
The Constitutional Court ultimately barred him from running again in the 2026 general election.
Lungu’s legacy is complex, with supporters praising his efforts to promote economic diversification and critics questioning his stance on certain issues, including LGBT rights.
His passing marks the end of an era in Zambian politics, and the nation mourns the loss of a significant figure.
As Zambia comes to terms with this loss, Lungu’s family, friends, and colleagues remember him as a dedicated public servant who left an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
