Zambia Stripped Former President of Retirement Benefits
Government of Zambia has withdrawn retirement benefits and privileges from former president Edgar Lungu following his decision to return to active politics.
His return to politics sets a stage for a bruising 2026 presidential race. Mr. Lungu lost the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in 2021, after which he announced his retirement.
Government spokesman, Cornelius Mweetwa said the former president has already been notified about the immediate withdrawal of his retirement benefits and privileges.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Mr. Mweetwa said the former leader would now be treated with “equality of the law”, just like any other senior citizen of the country.
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As a retired president, Mr. Lungu was entitled to three security officers, a diplomatic passport, three state cars, a furnished house, medical insurance and funeral expenses on his death.
Mr Lungu was, however, warned against confrontational politics against President Hichilema’s government.
Last month, Mr Lungu was warned against jogging in public, with police describing his weekly workouts as “political activism”.
It is not clear whether his immunity from prosecution will be removed.
Zambia’s parliament has revoked the right to immunity for two former presidents – Frederick Chiluba in 2002 and Rupiah Banda in 2013.
Some members of the ruling UPND have been calling for the removal of his immunity and prosecution for alleged corruption during his rule. Mr Lungu said the allegations were politically motivated.
