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Zambia Declares Seven Days of National Mourning for Late Former President Edgar Lungu

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Zambia Declares Seven Days of National Mourning for Late Former President Edgar Lungu

President Hakainde Hichilema has declared a seven-day period of national mourning to honour the late former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who passed away in South Africa on Thursday, June 5, 2025. The mourning period will begin on Sunday, June 8, and run through Saturday, June 14, 2025.

In a press briefing Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa confirmed that the Government of the Republic of Zambia has accorded Mr. Lungu a state funeral, in accordance with national protocol and in recognition of his service as the country’s sixth President.

Mr. Kangwa informed the public that the government has been in consultation with the Lungu family and relevant stakeholders to coordinate funeral arrangements. The late President’s body is expected to arrive in Zambia on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.

The official funeral gathering will take place at Belvedere Lodge along Leopards Hill Road in Kabulonga, Lusaka.

“As a mark of respect, all entertainment activities should be postponed or cancelled during the mourning period, and national flags will be flown at half-mast from 06:00 hours to 18:00 daily,” said Mr. Kangwa.

President Hichilema’s declaration of national mourning is in line with guidelines for honouring former Heads of State and is meant to acknowledge Mr. Lungu’s contributions to the nation during his time in office.

Further details regarding the state funeral and burial arrangements will be communicated in due course.

US jobs report surprises to upside—forget a summer rate cut from Fed

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US jobs report surprises to upside—forget a summer rate cut from Fed

The latest US jobs report came in hotter than expected, all but shutting the door on hopes for interest rate cuts this summer, says Nigel Green, CEO of global financial advisory and asset management organization, deVere Group.

Stock futures surged and bond yields climbed after the US economy added 139,000 jobs in May—well above the 125,000 that had been priced in.

He comments: “The labor market’s resilience puts the Fed in a difficult spot: inflation pressures remain sticky, and the cooling many expected simply hasn’t materialized in the data that matters most.

“This report puts another nail in the coffin for any talk of rate cuts in the summer. The Fed has said time and again it needs to see weakness in the labour market to move. This isn’t weakness. It’s strength with staying power.”

The report comes at a time when investors are already digesting a new wave of uncertainty stemming from trade policy shifts. As tariffs ramp back up under the Trump administration, inflationary pressure is poised to accelerate.

While these effects may take weeks or months to show fully in the CPI or PCE figures, markets are already preparing for another round of cost-driven price increases that will muddy the waters for policymakers.

“Inflation isn’t going to go gently,” Nigel Green adds. “We’re now seeing the early signs of a rebound in core pricing due to tariffs and wage pressures, and with job creation holding firm, there’s simply no justification for the Fed to move early.”

He continues: “It’s becoming increasingly apparent that the central bank will need to wait until at least September before cutting, if not later.

“That delay carries consequences—particularly for interest-rate-sensitive assets like tech stocks, growth sectors, and riskier emerging markets that had been pricing in easier policy.”

The bond market has responded decisively. Yields on the 10-year Treasury climbed sharply following the report, as traders revised their expectations.

Meanwhile, equities have staged a short-term rally on the idea that the economy is still running strong—but underlying that is a sense of growing caution.

With real rates remaining high and inflation likely to tick higher in June’s print, risk assets are increasingly exposed to a re-rating.

“Investors need to reposition fast,” warns Nigel Green. “This is a policy pivot moment, but not the one people hoped for. The pivot isn’t toward cuts—it’s toward patience. The central bank is back on watch-and-wait mode, and that means portfolios should start reflecting more defensive allocations.”

There are deeper concerns building too. The longer interest rates stay elevated, the more vulnerable over-leveraged sectors become. Commercial real estate, consumer credit, and regional banks—already under stress—could soon find the environment more difficult than many are anticipating.

On top of this, there is no clear signal yet on how expansive the new trade regime will become. The inflationary pass-through from tariffs tends to show up in delayed waves, but the direction is unmistakable.

Global firms with cross-border supply chains will face mounting pressure, and those costs are rarely absorbed quietly.

The Fed’s next meeting will likely confirm what the jobs report has already shown: the data is not moving fast enough in the right direction.

Talk of a summer cut now looks outdated. Even September is starting to look optimistic unless there’s a marked slowdown in hiring or a major downside surprise in inflation.

“This is the moment to reassess,” Nigel Green concludes.

“Too many investors positioned for a summer easing are now badly offside. The jobs number has redrawn the map. Forward-looking strategies must reflect that reality—now, not later.”

RPP Cautions Nakachinda on Irresponsible Statements Regarding the Passing of President Edgar Lungu

Chief Editor
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RPP Cautions Nakachinda on Irresponsible Statements Regarding the Passing of President Edgar Lungu

The Republican Progressive Party (RPP) would like to state that in this solemn period of national grief, it is incumbent upon all political leaders to exercise restraint, responsibility, and patriotism in what we say and do, especially in the public domain and through international media platforms.

It is in this regard that I wish to respectfully advise Mr. Raphael Nakachinda to be mindful of his utterances and the narratives he chooses to propagate in the wake of President Lungu’s natural passing. Blaming the government of a natural death. Mr. Nakachinda’s utterances is inciting unnecessary suspicion, division, and public anxiety—particularly at a time when unity and dignity should be our collective priority. This is a moment for national reflection, not for sowing discord or pushing unfounded narratives that risk polarizing the country and creating an unfavorable environment for Zambians to mourn with dignity.

This is not the time for political point-scoring or inflammatory conjecture. It is a time to honor the legacy of the late president and allow the nation and his family to mourn in peace. Statements that may create a hostile or misleading perception in the eyes of the international community do more harm than good to our national image and cohesion.

We urge Mr. Nakachinda and others to rise above partisan interests and contribute to a respectful and peaceful atmosphere. Let us preserve the decorum befitting a former Head of State, and allow Zambians to bid farewell in a manner that upholds our values and our dignity as a nation.

Leslie Chikuse
President – Republican Progressive Party (RPP)
Lusaka, Zambia

Mourning with Fire: Did Hichilema Deny Edgar Lungu a Chance to Live?

Chief Editor
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Mourning with Fire: Did Hichilema Deny Edgar Lungu a Chance to Live?

By Kapya Kaoma
The chilling revelation that former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu was repeatedly denied permission to travel abroad for urgent medical care—even when he offered to pay from his own pocket—is nothing short of morally outrageous. That he had to slip out of the country like a fugitive, stripped of the dignity befitting his former office, and that those who assisted him were swiftly fired, raises a sobering question, What kind of politics are we practicing? If a former Head of State could be treated this way, what hope remains for the rest of us?

That he was once blocked from boarding a plane for treatment isn’t just disturbing—it is damning. It suggests not neglect, but something far more sinister–creeping authoritarianism masquerading as democracy. Surely! What administration withholds healthcare as a tool of political punishment? What kind of “New Dawn” dims the light on a man’s final days for political rivalry?
We must resist the ritual silence that shrouds death in polite restraint. Another coffin has come before us, but the truth must not be buried with it. Former President Lungu’s death is not just a tragedy—it bears the markings of political indifference, if not deliberate cruelty.

President Hichilema’s curt statement—that he was “informed” of Lungu’s passing—felt cold, distant, and sterile. This was not the death of a stranger; this was a former president. The moment demanded compassion. What we received was detachment.

Where was the urgency? Where was the empathy? Where, indeed, was the leadership?
Has the thirst for power so intoxicated our national conscience that even common decency must now be rationed?

We must ask the questions that matter. What became of the Office of the Former President—an institution designed not merely as a courtesy, but as a safeguard of dignity, continuity, and national memory? In any functioning democracy, the office would ensure that a former Head of State receives the care he needs, no matter the political weather. In Zambia, it seems, institutional respect has been replaced with political vindictiveness—and now, we are counting the cost in lives, not just in headlines.

The government claimed there was no money to support President Lungu’s treatment. Yet there’s always money—plenty of it—for endless foreign trips, bloated entourages, and the maintenance of two presidential residences for Mr. Hichilema. That’s not just fiscal irresponsibility—it’s moral rot. Since when did saving a life become an optional expense?

I will not mourn Edgar Lungu with tears alone. I mourn him with righteous anger—anger at the erosion of ubuntu, our shared humanity. Anger at a system so broken that those who chose compassion were punished for it. Anger that a man who once held the highest office in the land had to beg for dignity in his final moments.

President Lungu’s death must be more than a headline. It must be a turning point. It must help us to collectively declare, Never again. Never again should a sitting president hold unchecked power over the welfare of those who came before him. These are not favors handed out in benevolence—they are constitutional rights, funded by the very people in whose name the state claims to govern.

Yes, calls for unity in mourning are appropriate. But they must not be used as a blanket to smother truth. President Hichilema still has a chance to lead with moral clarity—but leadership, ethical leadership, begins with accountability.

The Lungu family has lost a husband, a father, a man. Zambia has lost a former leader, beloved by the masses. The rivers of tears flowing through our markets, streets, compounds, churches, and campuses speak loudly to President Hichilema, “The man you sidelined, mocked, and vowed to grab by the neck with his mingalato—was cherished by millions.”

But this mourning is not just about Edgar Lungu. It is a national lament—a cry for ethical leadership that places humanity above vendetta, and compassion above politics.

I believe in forgiveness. And I pray the Lungu family will, in time, find the strength to forgive. But let us be clear: forgiveness is not silence. Forgiveness begins with truth. And truth requires that we name what went wrong.
We should always remember that human life is sacred. It is not a pawn to be traded in the chess game of political rivalry. It must never again be subordinated to power, pride, or presidential pettiness.

It is time to end the politics of vengeance. It is time to say, Enough!

Lungu Family Speaks Out on Burial Plans, Blames State for Denied Medical Access

Lusaka Times Editor
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Lungu Family Speaks Out on Burial Plans, Blames State for Denied Medical Access

Makebi Zulu, legal representative of the family of the late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, has revealed that the family has formally engaged with the government to discuss the burial of the former Head of State. In a solemn statement, Zulu confirmed that the late president will be buried in Zambia in line with his personal wishes, with dignity befitting his service to the nation. However, the family has also strongly criticized the current government, alleging that it repeatedly denied Lungu access to medical treatment abroad despite being fully aware of his condition. Zulu expressed deep concern that had these requests been honoured, the former president might still be alive. While calling for national unity during this time of mourning, the family insists that no burial arrangement contrary to Lungu’s wishes and dignity will be accepted.

FULL STATEMENT:

Fellow countrymen and women, this is an address on behalf of the family of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, the 6th Republican President of the Republic of Zambia. Between yesterday and today, we have had occasion to meet the government of the Republic of Zambia, represented by Honorable Milambo Haimba. In our meetings, they requested to hear what the position of the family was as regards to how the mortal remains of our former president will be dealt with.

In dealing with this subject matter, a position was presented to the government of the Republic of Zambia. The position being that the family wished to respect the wishes of the former president of the Republic of Zambia, and the respect that has been afforded to him, as he wished could be afforded to him, was that he be buried in Zambia. And in being buried in Zambia, he took cognizance of the fact that he served the country faithfully and diligently, putting aside personal ones and putting the country back on a trajectory of development.

Hence, the massive infrastructure development that he oversaw being undertaken in the country. And as such, he would not take away the reason or rather the obligation of every Zambian or the desire of every Zambian to mourn him with dignity. And as such, President Edgar Chagwa Lungu deserves the honors of being buried with the dignity that will be afforded to him by the Zambians.

Through all this, he was cognizant to the fact that the government, under the watch of President Hakainde Hichilema, did not treat him as it ought to have. Sometime in 2022, he requested to travel for medicals in South Africa. The state rejected that request.

That request was re-emphasized in 2023. The state responded by stating that it had no resources. In his response to the state, he stated that he would use his own resources.

The state responded in a letter dated the 7th of September, 2023, stating that his request was denied. Notwithstanding that the said travel was not for leisure or business, but for his health to be attended to. It should be known that at any given time, the state was aware of the ailment of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

Having served in State House, and thereafter being former president, they knew what his condition was. Despite all that knowledge that they had, they still refused to allow him to travel. Fellow countrymen and women, you will note that at the time these entitlements were being denied him.

He hadn’t returned to active politics. He was still receiving other entitlements such as a pay that is due to a former head of state. But as regards his health and his movement, those were heavily restricted by the state.

In 2025, when the ailment worsened and doctors travelled into Zambia, checked on him and advised that he should come to South Africa. That time, he had ceased, or government had withdrawn all his privileges, and he travelled as an ordinary citizen. And the only booked and last-minute ticket was at the airport, for purposes of not allowing the state to have enough time to connive and stop him.

He arrived at the airport 30 minutes before boarding, and eventually boarded. Those who dared to give him courtesies at the airport have since been fired. In our meeting with the state today, we made it open and clear that the family is not adverse to certain privileges, though having been taken away from him, to be accorded to him as he earns them.

Fellow countrymen and women, you will note that upon his travel, doctors in South Africa did express a concern to states to say that had he travelled earlier, they could have made certain interventions that would have sent him away. And this would not be the discussion today. However, they proceeded to take measures that were necessary to sustain him and to remedy all the desires of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu himself and the family.

As the family moves, they call for unity, they call for sobriety, they call for introspection that this should not be a cause for division, but should be a cause for unity. And as such, any position from the government that goes against the desires of the family will not be accepted. However, we remain amenable to a win-win situation that accommodates all the views of the stakeholders involved.

I thank you.

Why has the UPND Become Tone Deaf?

Chief Editor
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Why has the UPND Become Tone Deaf?

By Chanda Chisala

I must confess that I was very optimistic when President Hichilema and his UPND won the 2021 elections because the insanity of party cadres becoming lawless with impunity became extremely annoying . All the good achievements of President Lungu were overshadowed by the Patriotic Front’s failure to get such thuggery under control. The PF leadership just ignored the loud complaints about this disturbing anarchy, and they paid the price for it. Of course, once they lost the elections, they suddenly saw the light and came back to Jesus!

The UPND government has now inherited that same tone deafness from their predecessors, albeit in a different direction. Their stubbornness to push through a constitutional amendment process without regard to any reasonable dissent (from the Law Association of Zambia, civic society, churches, traditional chiefs etc) is extremely disappointing. When they are advised that it’s unwise to conduct this process at this late hour as a contentious electoral season dawns, their army of social media supporters simply repeat the same talking points: “what don’t you like about this Bill? Why don’t you just propose your changes?”

This is a classic definition of political tone deafness. You can’t hear what the heart of the major complaint is: it’s the fact that we have a history of politicians tinkering with the constitution with nefarious motives of unethically helping themselves in elections, which is why we prefer it not done just before general elections. Even if we can’t show you what is wrong with the amendments, the fact is that we do not trust you to do this process without electoral or other selfish political motives. It’s nothing personal; we would not trust UNIP, MMD or PF either because they are all politicians and politicians all over the world have the incurable habit of using anything to entrench their power, especially when they have not fulfilled their major promises.

What is worse is that we can even already see worrying evidence of this political intrigue. You claim that one of the main reasons you are rushing through this Amendment Bill is because you desperately want to bring many more women and youth into government. However, as many people have pointed out, why didn’t you already elevate a large number of them when you had the discretion to do this, both through your party’s parliamentary adoptions, through nominated MPs or even through cabinet appointments etc? It is obvious to any thinking person that your claim of a newfound radical feminism is not genuine. So the question is: what else is not genuine in your other proposals? What else has an insidious motive and political calculation that we may not be seeing?

Or maybe there is absolutely no wrong motive and you really are the first set of politicians in Zambia who are completely honest and selfless. That may be true, but the people have no way of knowing this. So, if you had any serious concern for establishing an amendment process that is untainted with political suspicions, you would halt the process and resume after you win the next elections. If you are afraid that you might lose and these changes might not be done by the next government, because they do not love the women and youth as much as you do, rushing it now still makes no difference because they can just reverse whatever you push through. They will simply claim that they have the mandate of the voters now, which means this cycle of abusing the trust of the people will continue. Could you at least keep just one promise by putting an end to this destructive cycle once and for all?

Recent Articles from the Author:

Why the Thefts Can’t be Stopped

he US is Wrong to Withdraw Aid

Are UPND and Opposition Both Trying to Lose Elections?

Who Was the Worst President of Zambia?

How to End Zambia’s Poverty

Hichilema Should Have Implemented Sata’s Idea

President Hichilema is a Good Man, But His Policies Can’t Fix the Economy

Should Zambia Really Return to Socialism?

The author, Chanda Chisala, is the Founder of Zambia Online and Khama Institute. He is formerly a John S. Knight Fellow at Stanford University and Visiting Scholar to the Hoover Institution, a policy think tank at Stanford. You can follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chandachisala.

Hichilema’s Words That Wound, Lungu’s Death That Silences

Chief Editor
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Hichilema’s Words That Wound, Lungu’s Death That Silences

By Kapya Kaoma

The passing of former President Edgar Lungu marks not only a national tragedy but also a solemn moment for reflection in Zambian politics. It offers those in leadership—especially President Hakainde Hichilema—an opportunity to reconsider the tone and tenor of political engagement that has defined the country’s recent past. It is a moment to acknowledge that political rivalry, when driven by personal antagonism and amplified by state institutions, can corrode the foundations of democratic civility.

Since taking office, President Hichilema cast Mr. Lungu as his central adversary. Public discourse was saturated with sharp criticism, dismissive remarks, and pointed rhetoric aimed at delegitimizing the former president’s political ambitions and personal dignity. Lungu was portrayed as a national pariah, repeatedly told he would never return to State House as long as Hichilema was in power. References to possible imprisonment, mockery of his political comeback as ‘kutumpa,” and threats of “imingalato” to block his path back to the presidency were just a few examples of Hichilema’s combative—and at times demeaning—approach.

This hostility was neither subtle nor incidental. It was sustained, public, and unmistakable.

In the wake of Lungu’s death, it would be disingenuous to ignore this history. The national discourse must reckon with the impact such rhetoric has had—not only on Lungu’s legacy but on our national politics.

It also forces us to confront an uncomfortable, perhaps inevitable, public truth; President Hichilema’s most formidable challenger is now gone—not through the ballot, but through death. The constitutional questions surrounding Lungu’s eligibility, once central to Zambia’s political debates, have now been silenced. As a result, when the President expresses sorrow over Lungu’s death, many may quietly wonder–what exactly is he mourning?

This is a sobering reminder of the power of language. Words are never neutral. They frame public perception, shape emotional responses, and leave residues that outlast any single administration. Had it been known that Lungu would not live to contest the 2026 elections, would the President’s rhetoric have been different? Would we have seen more restraint, greater civility, deeper respect?

Though President Hichilema may now offer heartfelt condolences, their reception remains uncertain. Many Zambians—and perhaps Lungu’s own family—will remember the antagonism that defined their relationship. It is hard to reconcile today’s condolences with yesterday’s condemnations.

Lungu’s passing also suggests untold erosion of empathy in political life. Politicians, above all else, are human beings. They suffer illness, loss, and, ultimately, death. They are not mere vessels of power or policy, but individuals deserving of dignity and humane treatment—even in opposition.

This is a moment that demands a renewed commitment to ubuntu—the African ethical principle affirming our shared humanity. Without it, political life descends into suspicion, antagonism, and moral decay. We begin to whisper accusations, nurture distrust, and lose sight of our mutual obligations as citizens.

President Hichilema must now confront a perception—fair or not—that his political opponents have fallen while his own position has grown stronger. He is, of course, not responsible for events beyond his control, and there is no evidence suggesting any culpability. Still, in African tradition, perception outweighs fact.

For some, this reality will stir uncomfortable comparisons with other contexts where political rivals vanished or died under questionable circumstances. While such parallels should not be made lightly, they reflect a broader regional unease that cannot be ignored. In recent memory, Edith Nawakwi died under similar conditions. Today, Zambia mourns Edgar Lungu. The unsettling question that now lingers is, who might be next?

One cannot help but feel sympathy for President Hichilema. History has cast him in a difficult role—one in which his own ascent coincides with the disappearance of his rivals. Whether by design or by fate, their shadows will trail him into the future. Sadly the nation, in quiet reflection, will continue to watch, remember, and whisper to the wind.

May his soul rest in peace and rise in glory. Amen.

Corruption Scandals Challenge UPND’s Newly Adopted “Kwenyu” Slogan

Chief Editor
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Corruption Scandals Challenge UPND’s Newly Adopted “Kwenyu” Slogan

By Venus N Msyani

As Zambia approaches the 2026 general elections, political slogans are shaping the campaign season’s narrative. The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has adopted “Kwenyu,” a Tonga phrase meaning “done” or “correct,” as its rallying cry. This slogan, similar to checking off completed tasks on a list, is intended to reinforce the party’s achievements. However, mounting corruption scandals threaten to undermine its credibility.

Meanwhile, the opposition has been embracing the Bemba phrase “Alebwelelapo pamupando” (He is returning to the seat), referring to, may his soul rest in peace, former President Edgar Lungu’s bid for reelection.

This phrase has been gaining traction among opposition supporters, creating a direct challenge to the UPND administration. President Hakainde Hichilema, responding to this slogan, has been struggling with linguistic precision, often slipping when speaking in Bemba and Tonga. In Zambia, certain words are culturally sensitive, and his missteps have been occasionally fueling controversy.

Initially, some believed “Kwenyu” was another linguistic slip when they first heard the President say it. However, it soon became evident that UPND had deliberately adopted it as a campaign slogan. Today, in speeches and remarks, UPND officials are met with chants of “Kwenyu,” reinforcing its position as the party’s brand heading into 2026.

Yet, the rise in corruption scandals within UPND circles complicates the party’s ability to champion integrity. A striking example is the case of Local Government Permanent Secretary Nicholas Phiri. In November 2024, Phiri publicly committed to resign if all 156 constituencies did not receive ambulances by May 2025. It was a bold pledge, reflecting the administration’s promises of improved healthcare delivery. However, now in June 2025, many constituencies remain without ambulances, and calls for Phiri’s resignation are growing louder.

Despite these demands, Phiri refuses to step down, citing unforeseen logistical challenges that have delayed procurement via the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA). His refusal raises concerns, particularly because ZAMMSA has previously been implicated in corruption allegations under the UPND administration. The question arises—are these ambulance acquisitions free from irregularities, or does this procurement process warrant deeper scrutiny?

Instead of merely demanding Phiri’s resignation, there may be value in probing further into the procurement process. Given his experience in government operations, it is reasonable to assume that he would have anticipated potential obstacles before making such a public pledge. The failure to meet his commitment suggests either mismanagement or deeper issues within the government’s healthcare procurement strategy. Addressing these concerns transparently is vital to restoring public trust.

The UPND administration’s fight against corruption is failing because it often ignores the deeper structural issues at play. The persistence of scandals suggests that rather than prioritizing genuine reform, the anti-corruption narrative is being wielded as a political tool to gain mileage. This situation is compounded by the lack of mandatory annual asset declarations from elected officials, a vital accountability measure that could have prevented many financial irregularities. If the President had led by example in asset declaration, the political conversation surrounding corruption would likely be different.

Given the current wave of scandals, UPND may find it increasingly difficult to address corruption convincingly in its 2026 campaign speeches. The challenge lies in whether the administration can implement real reforms rather than relying on slogans to deflect criticism.

Transparency and accountability remain key factors in shaping public opinion. The Zambian people will be watching closely, demanding actions that align with political rhetoric. Ultimately, “Kwenyu” may prove to be more than just a slogan. It could become a test of whether the UPND has indeed fulfilled its promises or merely spoken them into existence.

President Hichilema Mourns the Passing of Former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Mourns the Passing of Former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu

The nation has been plunged into mourning following the announcement of the passing of the Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu. The somber news was confirmed by the Lungu family and has since drawn heartfelt condolences from across the country.

In an official statement, President Hakainde Hichilema expressed deep sorrow on behalf of the nation, offering condolences to the widow and former First Lady, Madam Esther Lungu, the entire Lungu family, the Patriotic Front Party, and all its members.

“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we have been informed of the passing on of the Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, by his family,” read the statement issued by President Hichilema.

He called upon all Zambians to come together in unity, regardless of political affiliation or personal belief, to honor the memory and legacy of a man who once held the highest office in the land.

“As Africans, and more so as Christians, this moment calls for solemnity, unity, and an outpouring of love and compassion. Let us come together as one people to honour the life of President Lungu,” President Hichilema urged.

In his message, the Head of State emphasized the need for national solidarity, patriotism, and mutual respect during this difficult time, encouraging all citizens to support the bereaved family and uphold the values of peace, dignity, and togetherness that define Zambia.

President Lungu served as Zambia’s sixth president from 2015 to 2021. His leadership and contribution to the nation’s history remain a significant part of Zambia’s democratic journey.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements and national observances are expected to be announced in due course.

May His Excellency Edgar Chagwa Lungu rest in eternal peace.

A Call for Unity in Mourning: Leadership Beyond Politics

Lusaka Times Editor
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A Call for Unity in Mourning: Leadership Beyond Politics

A Call for Unity in Mourning: Leadership Beyond Politics

By Emmanuel Mwamba

Even in deep sorrow and hard times like these, the bad times must be put in the past. It is disheartening that not a single statement,however brief, has been issued by the Republican President in his capacity as leader of the nation, beyond any personal considerations.

As Zambia mourns the passing of a former head of state, the silence is palpable. The President could have been among the first to acknowledge this loss, or at the very least, followed protocol with a formal message through state channels—ZNBC, public media, or an official release. Even a single line, devoid of elaborate emotion but grounded in respect, would have upheld the spirit of “One Zambia, One Nation.”

Leadership is measured not only in governance but in moments that demand unity. When the nation grieves, words matter. A gesture of recognition, no matter how small, would have reminded Zambians that our shared identity transcends political divides. Let us hope that in the future, such opportunities to heal and unite are not missed, for the sake of the nation we all cherish.

Zambia Mourns

Lusaka Times Editor
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Zambia Mourns

Zambia is in mourning following the death of its Sixth Republican President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who passed away earlier today. The news has sent shockwaves across the nation, with political figures, supporters, and citizens alike expressing deep sorrow at the loss of a former Head of State who led the country through a pivotal era in its democratic journey. Dr. Lungu’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Zambia’s political history, and tributes are beginning to pour in as the country comes to terms with the loss.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE PATRIOTIC FRONT ON THE DEMISE OF ZAMBIA’S SIXTH PRESIDENT, DR. EDGAR CHAGWA LUNGU
Thursday, 5th June 2025

Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu has passed on.

The former President, who has been receiving specialized treatment in South Africa, died today on Thursday, 5th June 2025 at Mediclinic Medforum Hospital in Pretoria, South Africa.

Chawama Member of Parliament and daughter to Dr. Lungu, Hon. Tasila Lungu-Mwansa confirmed the sad development.

And lawyer to the family, Hon. Makebi Zulu confirmed the sad development but stated that members of the family were in the process of being informed.

President Edgar Lungu served as Zambia’s Sixth Republican President from 26th January 2015 to August 24th, 2021.

Details and funeral arrangements will be communicated later.

Issued by:
Hon. Given Lubinda
Acting President
Patriotic Front

C-10 13TH Ministerial Meeting Officially Opens In Lusaka

Chief Editor
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C-10 13TH Ministerial Meeting Officially Opens In Lusaka

President Hakainde Hichilema has urged the international community to address the historical injustices regarding Africa’s underrepresentation on the United Nations Security Council.
He noted that more than 60 percent of matters before the Security Council concern Africa, hence legitimising the demand for equal representation.

President Hichilema has further observed that despite Intergovernmental Negotiations on UN reforms having been ongoing for many years, no meaningful progress has been achieved.

He adds that this situation is proving to be a limiting factor of Africa’s ability to resolve its continental conflicts.

The Head of State said this in a speech read on his behalf by Minister of Defense, Ambrose Lufuma, during the official opening of the 13th Ministerial Meeting of the Committee of Ten Heads of State and Government on the Reform of the United Nations Security Council, in Lusaka today.

ZANIS reports that among the UN Security Council reforms being advocated for are veto power, two permanent seats, and five seats in the non-permanent category.
“The voice of Africa must be heard! The UN Security Council must be reformed, and this must happen now!” the Head of State stressed.

The President, however, pointed out that international interest in Africa’s natural resources and youthful population is increasing despite various challenges.

President Hichilema also reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to advancing the demand for reforms in the UN Security Council.

Meanwhile, Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahammoud Youssouf, who was represented by AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Bankole Adeoye, called on C-10 member states to roll out Security Council reforms to individual Africans.
He stressed that these injustices due to Africa’s underrepresentation affect all individuals of African descent, including those in the diaspora.

And President of the United Nations General Assembly, Philemon Yang, who was represented by Chef de Cabinet, Ivor Funga, expressed optimism that action to advance reforms will be taken before the next General Assembly.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, announced that actionable recommendations will be produced at the end of the ministerial meeting.

Minister Of Health Officially Opens CFB Medical Centre New Wing

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Minister Of Health Officially Opens CFB Medical Centre New Wing

Minister of Health, Elijah Muchima, says government has prioritised health care as a key pillar of national development.
Dr Muchima says the government is investing in infrastructure, training, equipment, and service delivery across the country to ensure no one is left behind.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony of a new wing at CFB Medical Center in Lusaka today, Dr Muchima noted that the expansion of the medical facility is a major landmark towards bringing high standards of advanced healthcare services and technology in the country.

He added that the modern facility is in line with the government’s intent to promote and enhance private sector participation in the health sector.
Dr Muchima further disclosed that the development created employment at construction stage and is still creating employment opportunities for health professionals including both doctors and nurses.

“I am delighted that over 200 jobs were generated during the construction phase, with an additional of over 100 long-term healthcare and administrative positions by the end of this year,” he said.

“It is also gratifying to note that upon full operationalisation, CFB Medical Centre, is expected to have a labour complement of 345 permanent positions in healthcare, technical, and administrative fields by year 2028,” Dr Muchima added.
And, CFB Medical Center Chief Executive Officer, Lynen Reinhilde, noted that with the rising volumes and evolving healthcare needs, the project is designed to improve access to specialised care, enhancing critical care capabilities and preparing for future public health needs.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the government of the Republic of Zambia, under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, for implementing tax incentives that have made medical investment more viable,” she noted.

How 1xBet is Redefining Road Culture in Zambia — One Challenge at a Time

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How 1xBet is Redefining Road Culture in Zambia — One Challenge at a Time

In early 2025, 1xBet relaunched its 10-month social campaign Safety on the Road with a bold message:
Pedestrians are not vulnerable bystanders. They are equal participants in traffic.

From urban highways to rural gravel paths, Zambia’s roads remain a daily risk faced by millions, especially those who walk. That’s why the first topic of this year’s campaign focused on Road Conditions and Pedestrian Safety. It is aimed to draw attention to Zambia’s deteriorating infrastructure. The goal was to shift focus from blame to awareness, and from isolated behavior to shared environments.

Safety on the Road is a long-term social initiative by 1xBet in partnership with community organizations, Safety for People on the Move NGO, and prominent Zambian influencers — one of whom is Magnate.

From Observation to Action: The First Campaign Chapter

1xBet’s campaign kicked off with a comprehensive look at Zambia’s road realities:
Uneven infrastructure, poorly lit intersections, missing signage, and inadequate pedestrian protection put thousands at risk each day. In partnership with Safety for People on the Move, the 1xBet team chose to shift the conversation  from blaming behavior to highlighting the environments that shape it.

To amplify the message, 1xBet launched a light but thought-provoking activity:
GUESS THE LOCATION — a visual quiz asking users to identify countries based on real road photos. On the surface: fun. At its core: awareness. How much do you notice your surroundings when you walk or drive?

Zed Gear Car Show: Where Legal Adrenaline Meets Social Impact

The first chapter of the campaign also included Zed Gear Car Show, Zambia’s biggest celebration of modified cars, drift culture, and street style. As the main sponsor for the third year in a row, 1xBet didn’t just bring prizes and excitement it brought purpose.

1xBet was loud and clear in their purpose, as stated by brand spokesperson Kafupi Muwana:

The message is simple: racing belongs on the track. The road is for life. We want to show that being careful isn’t boring — it’s smart. We’re not against thrill — we’re for culture and conscious choices.

Through its partnership with Zed Gear, 1xBet supports adrenaline on the track, and promotes responsibility on the streets. Drift shows, track battles, tuned cars: it’s all part of a controlled, legal motorsport ecosystem. But outside the event, safety becomes the ultimate value.

The Show That Raised Questions

Safety on the Road campaign even went live with a TV segment featuring:

  • Wababa, racing pilot
  • Chichi, from Safety for People on the Move
  • Kafupi Muwana, representing 1xBet

Together, they challenged the public to rethink what responsibility means on the road — and how social media, gamified learning, and local heroes can make that message stick.

We don’t just preach. We speak their language — through heroes they admire, through gamified tools, through TikTok and challenges. And it works. – said Kafupi Muwana.

Smart Driver Challenge: A Win for Awareness

Another part of 1xBet campaign was the Smart Driver Challenge — a quiz-based contest inviting everyone (not only just drivers) to test their knowledge of traffic safety.

Hundreds joined. Stories came in.
One participant wrote:

“Your campaign made me stop drifting in the mall parking lot. Now I wait for the track.”

That’s the kind of change this campaign is built to inspire.

What’s New: The Interactive Road Safety Test

To conclude the first theme of the campaign, 1xBet launched a new digital format: a mobile-first interactive test designed to reinforce road safety awareness in a fun and accessible way.

  • 7 smart questions about road behavior, decision-making, and safety logic
  • Quick, gamified, and engaging
  • Open to everyone — drivers and non-drivers alike

This test is a bonus activity created to strengthen knowledge through interactivity.
Why it matters: Because safe driving habits don’t start with a license — they start with mindset. The earlier we build awareness, the safer our roads become.

Culture Through Participation

In 2025, Safety on the Road is more than content. It’s a movement. Every month, a new theme emerges from visibility to accident-prone zones, with media segments, street activations, influencer challenges, and digital games. The goal:

  • Engage the public
  • Educate through entertainment
  • Elevate road safety into daily awareness

We teach through action: answer a quiz — earn a badge, set an example — win a reward. It’s not a lecture. It’s participation. And young people appreciate that. – Kafupi Muwana

The whole project also has an impressive prize pool of 100,000 ZMW, to encourage particimants and show them appreciation from the brand. The real reward? Safer roads for everyone.

Ready to Join?

Take the test (https://www.proprofs.com/quiz-school/ugc/story.php?title=ndi5nzm3mabmv7)
Share your score and follow 1xBet on social media to join challenges!

Win part of the 100,000 ZMW prize pool

“Adrenaline belongs on the track. Safety belongs on the road.”
1xBet believes you can be both brave and smart. And that’s the kind of champion they’re helping raise — on the streets, in the stands, and on every screen across Zambia.

 

The Constitution Amendment Bill No.7 Must Be Withdrawn -LAZ

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The Constitution Amendment Bill No.7 Must Be Withdrawn -LAZ

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has carefully reviewed the provisions of the Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 of 2025, which was published in the Government Gazette on 23rd May 2025. The Government has signaled its intention to introduce this Bill on the floor of the National Assembly as part of efforts to reform the country’s constitutional order.

LAZ notes with concern that the proposed constitutional amendment process excluded stakeholders and citizens from meaningful involvement. The Bill appears to have been published in the Gazette merely for the public’s general information, without any clearly established pathway for participation prior to its submission to the National Assembly. Furthermore, the Government has not disclosed any information regarding the processes followed in drafting the content of the Bill or any changes made to it, nor has it revealed which stakeholders contributed recommendations.

It is LAZ’s position that the Constitution is a people’s document, and the participation of citizens in its formulation must not be compromised. The preamble of the Constitution affirms this fundamental principle. Moreover, Article 79 of the Constitution, which outlines the procedures for amending the Constitution, must not be interpreted in a manner that excludes the very people who are its rightful custodians.

Governments and ruling parties—who exercise delegated power on behalf of the people—have an obligation to establish a legally protected process that ensures citizens’ meaningful participation in reforming the supreme law of the land and in safeguarding its content.

Therefore, it is LAZ’s position that Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 of 2025 lacks the broad-based stakeholder engagement and consensus required to deliver a legitimate and acceptable constitutional reform process.

Unfortunately, because this Bill has not benefited from the collective wisdom and input that inclusive consultation brings, some of the proposed amendments risk eroding the democratic foundations upon which our country is built. LAZ wishes to draw the nation’s attention to the following concerns:

1.Section 8 of the Bill proposes to amend Article 72(8) of the Constitution to allow vacancies in the office of Member of Parliament (MP) to be filled by the political party from which the MP was elected. This is dangerous, especially in the context of weak intra-party democracy. It not only deprives citizens of the right to elect their representatives, but it also opens the door to potential abuse—where democratically elected MPs could be replaced, without elections, by more compliant party members. Such a provision would undermine accountability and weaken the checks and balances embedded in our democratic system, to the detriment of the citizenry.

2.The proposed amendments aimed at increasing the participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities are wholly inadequate. They lack the input of the very stakeholders they are meant to empower.

3.The proposed increase in the number of elected MPs to 211 is based on the Electoral Reform Technical Committee Report, a document that remains hidden from public scrutiny despite being the product of a public process. Citizens cannot meaningfully debate the creation of new constituencies when the locations of these constituencies are treated as confidential. It is also difficult to justify the urgency in expanding the National Assembly at a time when the country faces economic constraints. Rather than spending scarce resources on more MPs, Government should prioritize implementing the decentralization policy to ensure that resources reach communities at the grassroots level. There is no empirical evidence suggesting that smaller constituencies perform better than larger ones, nor that an increased number of MPs will drive economic development.

In light of the above, LAZ calls on the Government to heed the voices of the Church, traditional leaders, civil society, and other stakeholders by withdrawing Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 of 2025. Constitutional reform must be grounded in genuine, broad-based stakeholder engagement and consensus—both in substance and process—to ensure the legitimacy of the outcome.

In the meantime, LAZ will convene a Public Forum to provide members and the general public with an opportunity to express their views on the ongoing constitutional reform process.

This press release, issued in the national interest and in the promotion of constitutionalism and legal reform, is in line with LAZ’s mandate under Section 4 of the Law Association of Zambia Act No. 31 of the Laws of Zambia.

LUNGISANI ZULU
President

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