Zambia mourns the death of its former leader, Edgar Lungu, who passed away at the age of 68, according to an official statement from his political party. The Patriotic Front (PF) indicated that he had been undergoing specialized medical treatment in South Africa for an unspecified illness. The cause of his health complications remains undisclosed.

Lungu's political journey spanned over a decade, with his presidency beginning in January 2015 following the death of President Michael Sata. His tenure, which lasted six years, was marked by efforts to attract Chinese investment and bolster infrastructure development. Despite these initiatives, his time in office drew criticism for economic struggles, soaring unemployment, and rising national debt. His administration was also marred by numerous corruption scandals involving allies and relatives, allegations he consistently denied.

He secured his first full term in 2016 after obtaining over 50% of the vote in a competitive election. However, by 2021, Lungu faced electoral defeat to opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema, who garnered nearly a million votes more, paving the way for a new government. Lungu announced his retirement from politics following the election, but his influence persisted. In 2023, he re-entered the political arena, criticizing his successor and vowing to defend democracy passionately.

Despite his return, Lungu faced mounting challenges, including accusations of police harassment and restrictions on his movement. Last year, he claimed he was virtually under house arrest, stating he was hindered from attending international conferences and seeking medical treatment abroad. The government refuted these claims, asserting he was free to exercise his rights at any time.

Lungu's personal background was rooted in law; he earned a degree from the University of Zambia in 1981 and initially worked as a lawyer before a rapid ascent in politics. He served as deputy minister in the Vice President's office in 2011, quickly rising through the ranks to hold positions such as Minister of Home Affairs, Defense, and Justice. Close friends described him as a dedicated soldier, lawyer, politician, and devoted family man.

His health issues included a period a decade ago when he underwent throat surgery abroad due to a narrowing of the esophagus, a condition publicly acknowledged at the time. In recent weeks, he had been under strict medical supervision.

The nation’s current President, Hakainde Hichilema, extended his condolences, calling for unity in a difficult time. In a heartfelt message, Hichilema urged Zambians to set aside political differences and honor the legacy of a man who once held the highest office in the land.

In a poignant tribute, Lungu’s daughter, Tasila, conveyed her grief via a brief yet emotional video, stating, “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.” She confirmed that her father died at a clinic in Pretoria, South Africa, at 06:00 local time on Thursday.

As Zambia reflects on Edgar Lungu's complex legacy, his death marks the end of an era defined by vigorous political pursuit, economic ambition, and the enduring influence of a man who rose from legal corridors to the highest office in the land.