Official Obituary

Early Life and Education

Born on 11 November 1956 at Ndola Central Hospital in the Copperbelt Province, Edgar Chagwa Lungu grew up during Zambia's formative years as an independent nation. His early life was shaped by the aspirations and challenges of a young African democracy finding its place in the world.

Dr. Lungu pursued his higher education at the University of Zambia, where he distinguished himself as a dedicated student of law. In 1981, he graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree, laying the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in both law and public service.

Legal Career

Following his graduation, Dr. Lungu joined the esteemed law firm Andrea Masiye and Company in Lusaka, where he honed his legal skills and developed a deep understanding of Zambian jurisprudence. His legal practice exposed him to the challenges facing ordinary Zambians and instilled in him a commitment to justice and the rule of law.

In addition to his legal training, Dr. Lungu underwent military officer training at Miltez in Kabwe under the Zambia National Service (ZNS), an experience that instilled in him discipline and a profound understanding of national security matters.

Political Journey

Dr. Lungu's entry into politics began in 1996 when he contested the Chawama constituency as an independent candidate. Though unsuccessful in this first attempt, his political journey had begun. He subsequently joined the United Party for National Development (UPND) in 1998, before eventually finding his political home with the Patriotic Front (PF) in 2001.

His persistence and dedication to public service were rewarded in 2011 when he successfully won the Chawama constituency seat for the Patriotic Front, marking the beginning of his rapid rise through the ranks of government.

Presidential Leadership

Following the untimely death of President Michael Sata in October 2014, Dr. Lungu emerged as the Patriotic Front's candidate for the presidential by-election. On 20 January 2015, he was elected as Zambia's sixth President, defeating his closest rival by a narrow margin and demonstrating the competitive nature of Zambian democracy.

Dr. Lungu was subsequently re-elected for a full term in August 2016, again in a closely contested election that underscored the vibrancy of Zambia's democratic institutions. His presidency was marked by significant achievements in various sectors of national development.

Among his notable accomplishments was the historic appointment of Inonge Wina as Zambia's first female Vice-President, breaking significant barriers and advancing gender equality in leadership. He also commuted the death sentences of 332 prisoners to life imprisonment, demonstrating his commitment to human rights and criminal justice reform.