Former Zambian president Edgar Lungu dies at 68

Zambia's sixth president, Edgar Lungu, has died at 68 after a career marked by bold leadership and controversy. Known for boosting Zambia's global standing, Lungu also faced criticism for heavy-handed security measures.

Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who served as Zambia's sixth president from 2015 to 2021, has died, as his political party, the Patriotic Front, and family announced on Thursday.

He died on Thursday morning after receiving specialized medical treatment at 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 added, 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.

He also appointed Zambia's first female vice president, Inonge Wina, and introduced initiatives such as commuting death sentences and establishing a national day of prayer.

"For a long time, the country had never appointed a female vice president, and he was the first to do so", Human rights activist Juliet Chibuta told DW. "He made this appointment twice, including when he ran for office again. He also appointed several women as ministers. At that point, I believe Zambia had the highest number of female cabinet ministers. We remember him for this positive gesture."

Lungu's presidency labeled as harsh

Edward Lungu's presidency faced significant economic challenges, including recession and rising debt, alongside growing political tensions.

Lungu's government frequently used emergency powers to control unrest, such as during riots linked to rumors of ritual killing 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 heavy-handed security tactics, stating he invoked a state of emergency "to bring sanity" to turbulent times.

"He showed great courage throughout his journey, even when his path to the presidency was not smooth", Patriotic Front lawmaker Francis Mulenga Fube told DW. "Some say he was never jailed during his presidency or political career, but the intra-party struggles he faced were very difficult. Despite these challenges, President Lungu has left a legacy of progress, infrastructure development, and resilience. He shared the presidency during the Covid-19 pandemic and managed many other challenges.”

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 alluding to as much, such as the announcement  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 social democratic Patriotic Front party.

Rising through key ministerial roles, he became president following the death of Michael Sata in 2014. Edward Lungu was married to Esther Lungu. Together, they had 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.

"I remember the former republican president for his simplicity, humility, and his openness to various views and personalities from different segments of society", Guess Nyirenda, electoral and governance expert, told DW. "He tried his level best in democratic and political governance. He did what he could, although some people took advantage of his humility and simplicity, mistaking it for weakness."

Hakainde Hichilema, who was also Edward Lungu's main political opponent during his presidency, said: "Respect and recognition is earned and not forced," criticizing Lungu's leadership style and governance approach.

Edited by: Keith Walker