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Edgar Lungu, Zambia’s sixth president, dies in Pretoria at 68

Weeks under specialized medical care in South Africa preceded his death in Pretoria following a court ruling that barred his return to the presidency.

FILE - Zambia's President Edgar Chagwa Lungu addresses the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly, at U.N. headquarters, Sept. 19, 2017. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)
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Zambia's former president Edgar Lungu had been receiving medical treatment in a clinic in South Africa

Overview

  • His daughter Tasila Lungu-Mwansa said he had been under medical supervision for weeks and died at a Pretoria clinic on June 5.
  • Lungu led Zambia from 2015 to 2021, completing Michael Sata’s term and winning a full term in 2016 before losing the 2021 election to Hakainde Hichilema.
  • His administration launched major infrastructure and economic diversification initiatives but faced criticism over a 2020 debt default, rising public debt and the use of emergency powers to control unrest.
  • A constitutional court decision in December 2024 ruled that his earlier service counted as two terms and barred him from contesting the next election.
  • Supporters praise his development projects and diplomatic efforts, while critics highlight concerns over governance, political tensions and restrictions on freedoms.