Zambia is in mourning following the death of former President Edgar Lungu at the age of 68, the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) party announced on Thursday.
Lungu, who led the southern African nation from 2015 to 2021, passed away while receiving specialised medical treatment in South Africa, the PF confirmed in an official statement.
‘The former president, who has been receiving specialised treatment in South Africa, died today on Thursday, 5th June,’ the party wrote in a Facebook post.
Death confirmed by family and legal team
The confirmation of Lungu’s passing came through his daughter and the family’s lawyer, the PF said. No details regarding the specific nature of his illness or cause of death have yet been released.
Lungu’s death comes amid renewed public attention following his recent hints at a political return, despite ongoing tension between his party and the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).
A presidency marked by growth and controversy
Edgar Lungu ascended to power in 2015 following the death of President Michael Sata and was re-elected in 2016 under the Patriotic Front banner. A lawyer by profession, Lungu presided over a period of aggressive infrastructure expansion, but his administration also faced growing criticism over rising debt levels, press restrictions, and alleged suppression of opposition voices.
He was defeated at the polls in 2021 by Hakainde Hichilema, marking one of Zambia’s most significant democratic transitions in recent history.
National tributes expected
At the time of reporting, President Hichilema had not yet publicly commented on his predecessor’s death, though tributes from across the political spectrum are expected in the coming days.
In keeping with national tradition, a state funeral is likely to be held to honour Lungu’s role as Zambia’s sixth president.
He is survived by his wife, former First Lady Esther Lungu, and their children.
