Former President Edgar Lungu’s institutional memory is a valuable asset that can strengthen Zambia’s democracy. By embracing the role of a statesman, he has the chance to foster unity, mentor future leaders, and leave a legacy of wisdom and reconciliation.
By Hon. Ponde C. Mecha.
Lusaka, Dec. 12 – Two days ago, the Constitutional Court ruled that Former President Edgar Lungu is not eligible to contest any future elections, as he has already served two terms as President. This landmark judgment brings clarity to a contentious legal matter and should provide an opportunity for us, as a nation, to reflect on the role and responsibility of our former leaders in shaping our democracy and promoting national unity.
Also Read: Lungu, the 6th Republican President, has robbed the nation of a Statesman – Ubuntu. Mr. Lungu is supposed to be a figure of honour and Statesmanship who should have kept away from active politics to play the role of giving guidance to the incumbent in the governance of the nation, as a fountain of wisdom.
As a former Member of Parliament who served during President Lungu’s tenure, I hold immense respect for the contributions he made to the nation from 2015 to 2021. Under his leadership, the country experienced both successes and challenges, and his institutional memory remains a valuable asset for Zambia. It is for this reason that I appeal to President Lungu to reconsider his position of staying in active politics and instead embrace the revered role of a statesman.
A statesman’s role transcends political affiliations and focuses on fostering unity, mentoring future leaders, and providing wise counsel for the benefit of the nation. This is the legacy that Zambia needs from the sixth Republican President Lungu at this time – a legacy of peace, wisdom, and reconciliation.
Equally, I appeal to President Hakainde Hichilema and civil society organizations to create an environment that encourages former president to step back from active politics and focus on statesmanship. This includes extending unconditional assurances that President Lungu’s retirement benefits will be restored and that he will be accorded the respect and dignity befitting a former Head of State. Ensuring his welfare is a matter of national interest and should not be left to political maneuvering by opposition or other groups.
The former President still has much to offer the nation, but not through the battleground of partisan politics. Instead, his wealth of experience should be harnessed to mentor leaders, share his insights, and strengthen Zambia’s democratic and governance systems.
Also Read: Lungu, 6th Republican President, ready for all manner of consequences, chooses to protect democracy! Lungu says, “It is not difficult for any well-meaning Zambian to notice that the recent events in our PF party have been instigated by those in government who appear determined to kill democracy in Zambia, for selfish political reasons!”
Finally, I urge the former President Lungu to honour the Constitutional Court’s ruling and resist any temptation to contest it. Doing so will not only preserve his legacy but also set a powerful example of respect for the rule of law. Development is a building block, and Zambia’s progress depends on our collective commitment to unity and democratic principles.
Let us come together as a nation to support our former leaders in transitioning to their role as elder statesmen. Zambia will only grow stronger when we recognize that true leadership lies in knowing when to step back and serve in a different capacity for the greater good of the nation.
About The Author: Hon. Ponde Chunga Mecha is the immediate past MP for Chifunabuli Constituency. He has worked and executed various development programmes in the agriculture sector under various funding sources including GRZ, World Bank, NORAD, FINNIDA, FAO, Melinda and Bill Gates Foundation, USAID and the EU.
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