Former First Lady Esther Lungu returned to Zambia yesterday from South Africa without her husband, former President Edgar Lungu. The former president, who left Zambia in January 2025 for a medical trip, remained in South Africa as he was expected to appear in court today.
Last week, Patriotic Front (PF) Spokesperson Emmanuel Mwamba announced that he had spoken to Lungu and assured the public that he was in good health and would soon return home. However, his extended absence has fueled speculation, with some critics accusing him of staying abroad to plot against his successor. Lungu has refuted these allegations, emphasizing that he peacefully handed over power and had no intention of undermining the current leadership.
Concerns about Lungu’s health have also been raised, with some speculating that he is critically ill. In Parliament, a point of order was raised requesting the Health Minister to provide an update on the former president’s condition. However, the minister declined to comment, citing privacy concerns. It was confirmed that Lungu had informed the government about his medical trip and was covering his own expenses.
Despite his absence, there has been no recent video or photographic evidence of Lungu since he left the country. However, he has continued to issue written statements regarding Zambia’s political landscape, assuring his supporters that his “Plan B” was in motion and would deliver victory in the 2026 elections.
Lungu remains the presidential candidate for the opposition Tonse Alliance, despite the Constitutional Court barring him from contesting future elections.
Upon her return, Former First Lady Esther Lungu was welcomed at the airport by prominent opposition figures, including PF and Tonse Alliance Secretary General Raphael Nakacinda, Mfuwe MP Maureen Mabonga, Milanzi MP Meleciana Phiri, former Works and Supply Minister Sylvia Chalikosa, and former Higher Education Minister Prof. Nkandu Luo.
Lungu’s continued absence and political statements have kept the nation on edge, with many awaiting further developments regarding his legal and political future.