Zambia’s former President Edgar Lungu passed away at 68 on June 5, 2025, in a Pretoria clinic, as confirmed by his Patriotic Front (PF) party. Lungu, who led Zambia from 2015 to 2021, died while receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness, leaving behind a polarizing legacy. Here’s a look at his life and impact.
A Political Journey Cut Short
Lungu, a lawyer by training, rose rapidly in politics after joining the PF in 2011, becoming president in 2015 after Michael Sata’s death. He won a full term in 2016 with 50.35% of the vote but lost to Hakainde Hichilema in 2021 by nearly a million votes. His tenure was marked by Chinese-backed infrastructure projects but criticized for economic struggles, high debt, and corruption scandals involving allies. Lungu denied wrongdoing.
Comeback and Controversy
After retiring post-2021, Lungu re-entered politics in 2023, rallying supporters against Hichilema’s waning popularity. He aimed for a 2026 presidential run but was barred by the Constitutional Court for exceeding term limits. Lungu faced police restrictions, including warnings against public jogging deemed “political activism,” and claimed near-house arrest in a 2024 interview. His daughter Tasila Lungu invoked his “One Zambia, One Nation” creed in a tearful statement.
Tributes and Divisions
President Hichilema urged unity, calling for “compassion above political affiliation.” South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa and Kenya’s William Ruto praised Lungu’s leadership. However, X posts reflect division: some, like @ZambianWatchdog, mourn his community ties, while others criticize his economic mismanagement. Lungu’s health issues, including throat surgery a decade ago, were noted but not detailed.
Why It Matters
Lungu’s death, amid Zambia’s ongoing economic recovery and $13 billion debt restructuring, leaves the PF’s future uncertain. His influence persisted despite controversies, shaping Zambia’s political landscape. With 70% of Zambians viewing his era negatively in 2021 Afrobarometer surveys, his legacy sparks debate on governance and accountability.
