Zambia’s Constitutional Court Bars Edgar Lungu from 2026 Presidential Election

Former President Edgar Lungu has been barred from running in the 2026 Zambian elections by the Constitutional Court, which ruled he has served the maximum two terms allowed. Lungu’s previous term, resulting from his election to succeed the late Michael Sata, was deemed to count toward his limit. The ruling comes amid a tumultuous political backdrop in Zambia as the country moves towards the next elections.

Zambia’s Constitutional Court has officially prohibited former President Edgar Lungu from seeking re-election in 2026, ruling that he has reached the constitutional limit of two terms in office. Lungu was first elected in January 2015 to finish the term of late President Michael Sata, who passed away in October 2014. Although he argued that his partial term did not count towards the limit, the court upheld its ruling, citing that Lungu has indeed been elected twice. This ruling reverses earlier decisions permitting him to run in previous elections prior to his recent loss to Hakainde Hichilema.

Despite Lungu’s attempts to stage a political comeback as the candidate for the opposition Tonse Alliance for the upcoming elections, the court’s decision reinforces the constitutional mandate intended to uphold democratic integrity in Zambia. Following his loss in 2021, Lungu’s status was further complicated by the withdrawal of his retirement benefits from the government, leading him to engage in public appearances to garner support. The ruling has been welcomed by government officials, who see it as a step toward ensuring clarity and fairness in the electoral process.

The ruling regarding Edgar Lungu arises from a broader context of political governance in Zambia, particularly concerning the country’s constitutional amendments and electoral laws. After the death of President Michael Sata, the Zambian constitution was revised to ensure that the vice president automatically assumes office in such circumstances. This development, alongside the legal fights surrounding Lungu’s eligibility, highlights the necessity of constitutional adherence and evolving political dynamics in Zambia, particularly as upcoming elections approach.

The Constitutional Court’s ruling reaffirms the importance of constitutional limits on presidential terms in Zambia. It ensures that Edgar Lungu, despite his previous efforts to continue in active politics, will not stand for election in 2026. This decision not only clarifies the legal landscape regarding eligibility but also emphasizes the commitment to upholding democracy in Zambia, paving the way for potentially fair and competitive elections in the future.

Original Source: www.bbc.com