Edgar Lungu barred from running for president again
- Zambia's Constitutional Court ruled that Edgar Lungu is not eligible for the 2026 presidential election due to already serving two terms.
- Lungu attempted to argue that his first term did not count as it was not a full five-year term.
- The court's ruling is seen as a victory for legal clarity and electoral fairness in Zambia.
In Zambia, the Constitutional Court ruled against former President Edgar Lungu, declaring him ineligible to seek re-election in the 2026 presidential race. This decision was made due to the fact that he had already served the maximum two terms permitted by the Zambian constitution, having first assumed office in January 2015. Lungu's original election came after the passing of President Michael Sata, when he completed the remaining months of Sata's term, which he argued should not count towards his presidential terms. However, the court's ruling emphasized that Lungu had indeed been elected twice and had held office for the statutory period. The ruling put an end to a significant legal challenge regarding Lungu's candidacy, especially after he had been endorsed by the opposition Tonse Alliance for the upcoming elections. Lungu's re-emergence into active politics had occurred a year after the Zambian government revoked his retirement privileges. Following this, he engaged in public activities, like jogging, which were perceived by authorities as attempts at political activism. This included reactions from the current government led by President Hakainde Hichilema, which had previously dismissed judges involved in a controversial ruling allowing Lungu to contest in the 2021 elections. Lungu publicly accepted the court's decision, stating that it reflected the political manipulation at play within the judiciary. He expressed concern about the independence of the judicial system and lamented the erosion of democratic principles in Zambia. Meanwhile, the government welcomed the court's ruling, emphasizing that it would provide legal clarity for the upcoming electoral process, which is seen as a means to ensure fair political competition. As this saga unfolded, a key aspect of the narrative has been the transition of power in Zambia, especially after a significant change of administration during the 2021 elections. Public sentiment seems to favor the ruling, as it aligns with a broader desire for transparency and integrity within the political landscape of Zambia. The Chief Justice's declaration on Lungu's eligibility has effectively removed uncertainties surrounding his candidacy and has set a precedent for future elections.