Zambia Ex-President Dies at 68
Edgar Lungu, Zambia‘s former president, has died at 68, confirming the end of a meaningful era in Zambian politics. Lungu, who led Zambia from 2015 to 2021, passed away after receiving treatment in South Africa. He faced a challenging term marked by economic struggles and high unemployment, ultimately leading to his defeat in the 2021 election against Hakainde Hichilema. Lungu’s legacy is being assessed after his death. His daughter confirmed his passing. News directory 3 provides further insights into his life and political career. Though he expressed desires to run again, the courts intervened. Funeral arrangements are underway as the nation reflects on the former leader’s impact. Discover what’s next for Zambia?
Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu Dies at 68
Updated June 5, 2025
edgar Lungu, Zambia’s former president, has died at the age of 68.His party, the Patriotic Front, confirmed the death in a statement, noting he had been receiving specialized treatment in South Africa for an undisclosed illness. Lungu’s passing marks the end of a chapter in Zambian politics, where he played a significant role.
Lungu led Zambia for six years, beginning in 2015 after winning a special election following the death of Michael Sata.He secured a full term in 2016. Though, he faced challenges including a struggling economy and high unemployment, leading to his defeat in the 2021 election by Hakainde Hichilema. Hichilema won by a large margin, tapping into widespread dissatisfaction among Zambian voters. The former president’s political influence and impact on Zambia are now being assessed.
Tasila Lungu, the former president’s daughter, said in a video that her father, who had been under medical supervision, died at 6 a.m. local time Thursday.
“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,” Tasila Lungu said.
Despite stepping back from politics after his 2021 defeat, lungu later expressed ambitions to run for the presidency again. However, the Constitutional Court barred him from running, citing the constitutional two-term limit.
What’s next
Funeral arrangements are pending as Zambia mourns the loss of its former leader. The nation reflects on Lungu’s legacy and his contributions to Zambian society.