Zambia's ex-president who wants to have another taste of power
Zambian’s former president Edgar Lungu has returned to active politics after retiring from same in 2021.
Lungu after serving a six-year term under a government that was criticized for economic mismanagement lost his electoral bid to incumbent president, Hakainde Hichilema.
Zambian local media outlet, Mwebantu, reports that he announced his decision to return in a speech at a memorial service of late president Michael Sata.
According to him, the decision is resultant of thoughtful reflections and consultations.
Lungu’s announcement is also a launch of his 2026 presidential bid which he intends to embark on the ticket of the Patriotic Front (PF) party.
What this means
Per the Laws of Zambia, Act Cap 15, Edgar Lungu is no longer entitled to enjoy the benefits of a former head of state with this new decision.
In accordance with the law, therefore, all such benefits have been withdrawn. This was confirmed by Information and Media Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa.
“Let me now come to the issue to do with the privileges and benefits of the former president Edgar Lungu. We would like the nation to know that on October 30th, cabinet or secretary to cabinet wrote to the former president in accordance to the benefits of former presidents Act Cap 15 of the Laws of Zambia and drew to his attention that Government in line with the law that is now forthwith withdrawing the benefits that a former president should enjoy,” he was quoted by Mwebantu.
Edgar Chagwa Lungu served as the sixth president of Zambia from January 26, 2015, to August 24, 2021. Under President Michael Sata, Lungu served as Minister of Justice and Minister of Defence.
