Condolence message on the passing on of Zambia’s 6th Republican President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu
The Board, Management and staff of Panos Institute Southern Africa (PSAf) are deeply saddened by the passing on of Zambia’s sixth Republican President, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who passed away on 5th June 2025.
A lawyer by profession, President Lungu previously served the nation in various capacities in the private sector and in the public service. As a public servant, he served as a Member of Parliament, Deputy Minister in the Office of the Vice President, Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Defence, and Minister of Justice.
As an organisation, we had an opportunity to work closely with Mr Lungu in various initiatives aimed at facilitating platforms for the underprivileged and marginalised communities to actively participate in governance and democratic processes in Zambia. In 2011, we worked closely with Mr Lungu, when in his capacity as a Member of Parliament for Chawama Constituency, he was one of the MPs that played a prominent role in our Atwaambe Project which promoted citizens’ engagement with decision makers. Alongside other Parliamentarians involved in the project, he actively participated in community driven and focused activities aimed at contributing to improvement of the welfare of people in their constituencies. He also actively participated in the I Care About Her project, under which we implemented a Media Campaign Against Gender Based Violence.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Lungu family, the Government, and the people of Zambia, including members and supporters of the Patriotic Front (PF) and the Tonse Alliance. May the Lord grant them strength and comfort during this difficult time.
May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace.
Vusumuzi Sifile, PSAf Executive Director