Zambia’s Constitutional Court on Tuesday delivered a decisive blow to former president Edgar Lungu’s aspirations for a second term in office, declaring him ineligible to run for the presidency in the upcoming elections.
The ruling marks a significant setback for Lungu’s political comeback bid, setting the stage for a new chapter in Zambia’s political landscape.
The court’s judgment centred on Lungu’s previous terms in office, deeming that his initial presidency from 2015 to 2016 – following the passing of then-president Michael Sata – constituted a full term.
Subsequently, Lungu’s second term, spanning from September 2016 to August 2021, came to an end after his defeat to Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development in the 2021 national election.
“The first respondent Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu has therefore been twice elected and has twice held office,” the court’s ruling stated, citing the provisions in the constitution that render Lungu ineligible to participate in any future presidential elections as a candidate.
Lungu’s return to active politics last year was met with anticipation and speculation. His decision to re-enter the political arena followed the arrest of several family members, including his wife, on allegations related to the possession of illicit proceeds.
Zambia is due to go for elections in 2026.
JN/APA