Lusaka, Zambia – 5 June 2025–Zambia is mourning the death of its sixth president, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who passed away early Thursday morning while receiving medical treatment in South Africa.
The announcement was made by his daughter, Tasila Lungu-Mwansa, who described the loss as a profound national tragedy.
“It is with deep sorrow that we confirm the passing of my father, His Excellency Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who died at 06:00 hours this morning at Medforum Clinic in Pretoria, South Africa,” she said in a brief statement.
“President Lungu had been under medical supervision in recent weeks. His condition was managed with dignity and privacy, with support from well-wishers.”
Details surrounding the cause of death have not been publicly disclosed. However, family lawyer Hon. Makebi Zulu confirmed the development and said that the family is currently notifying close relatives and friends.
Lungu, aged 68, led Zambia from 26 January 2015 until 24 August 2021, a period marked by ambitious infrastructure projects and controversial debates around debt and governance. His presidency followed the death of President Michael Sata, under whom he served as Minister of Justice and Minister of Defence.
The Patriotic Front (PF), the party under which Lungu rose to the highest office, also issued a formal statement confirming the news.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved former President,” said Hon. Given Lubinda, Acting President of the PF.
“Dr Lungu’s leadership and legacy will be remembered. Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.”
Lungu’s passing is expected to spark an official period of national mourning in Zambia, with flags flown at half-mast and a state funeral anticipated.
In her announcement, Tasila invoked the national motto that Lungu championed during his presidency:
“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.”
The government has yet to release an official statement. Further details on memorial plans and repatriation are expected in the coming days.
