7 months ago
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Edgar Chagwa Lungu, known for his tenure as the sixth president of Zambia from 2015 to 2021, has died, his political party, the Patriotic Front, and family announced on Thursday.
He died on Thursday morning after receiving specialized medical treatmentat a clinic in Pretoria, South Africa.
"My father had been under medical supervision in recent weeks," his daughter Tasila Lungu-Mwansa announced in a video shared on social media.
"His condition was managed with dignity and privacy with support from all well-wishers," she said, without providing further details.
'We are all ambassadors of our own country'
Lungu was recognized for improving Zambia's international standing, strengthening diplomatic relations with neighboring countries and beyond, which helped lift Zambia's image on the global stage.
"We are all ambassadors of our country in our own right," Lungu had said, emphasizing national unity and patriotism. "Whether you belong to the ruling party or opposition, you only have one country you can proudly call yours."
He focused on diversifying Zambia's economy away from copper dependency, promoting infrastructure development, and improving human security. Also, he appointed Zambia's first female vice-president, Inonge Wina, and introduced initiatives such as commuting death sentences and establishing a national day of prayer.
During his tenure, Lungu worked on improving international tiesImage: picture-alliance/Xinhua News Agency/P. XingleiLungu's presidency labeled as harsh
Edward Lungu's presidency faced significant economic challenges, including recession and rising debt, alongside growing political tensions. His government frequently used emergency powers to control unrest, such as during riots linked to ritual killing rumors that sparked xenophobic attacks. Critics accused him of suppressing opposition and curbing freedoms of expression, assembly, and the press.
Laws like the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act were enacted quickly, raising concerns about restricting online dissent. Media outlets critical of the government were shut down, and activists faced intimidation and arrests. Opposition and human rights groups condemned the use of defamation laws to silence critics and the weakening of police independence. Lungu defended these the heavy-handed security tactics, stating he invoked a state of emergency "to bring sanity" during turbulent times.
Would Lungu turn authoritarian?
Lungu's invocation of emergency powers was seen by some as authoritarian. Human rights advocates were alarmed when Lung made statements like that he would have to take "unprecedented measures and some people will have to lose their rights. So, if I become a dictator for once, bear with me."
After being defeated in the 2021 election by opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema, Lungu initially retired but later returned to active politics, which led to the government withdrawing his retirement benefits as per Zambian law.
Rising from legal roots to the presidency
Lungu was born on the November 11, 1956 in Ndola, Zambia, and grew up in the mineral-rich Copperbelt region. In 1981, he earned a law degree from the University of Zambia and began his career as a lawyer and military officer before entering politics with the Patriotic Front (PF). Rising through key ministerial roles, he became president following the death of Michael Sata in 2014. Edward Lungu was married to Esther Lungu. The couple has six children.
Public opinion on Lungu was mixed. Supporters praised his dedication to Zambia's development and stability, while critics highlighted concerns over governance and political tensions. Hakainde Hichilema, who was also Edward Lungu's main political opponent during his presidency, said about him: "Respect and recognition is earned and not forced ... Lungu must concentrate on running this country," criticizing Lungu's leadership style and governance approach.
