By Burnett Munthali
The recent Constitutional Court ruling against former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s bid for a third term has sparked a wave of mixed reactions across Zambia, with people expressing a range of emotions from joy to confusion. While some Zambians are celebrating the court’s decision, others are questioning the legal and political ramifications, especially regarding Lungu’s eligibility in the 2021 elections.
Many citizens, particularly those aligned with the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), have expressed happiness over the ruling, viewing it as a victory for democracy and the rule of law. Some believe Lungu’s attempts to extend his time in office would have undermined the democratic process. A Zambian commentator shared their surprise at the widespread joy, remarking, “The way people are happy… especially from the UPND side, was he really a threat? It’s as if losing by a million votes wasn’t enough.”
This sentiment reflects how deeply divisive Lungu’s political presence has been. For some, his defeat in the 2021 presidential elections was a resounding enough rejection, and the legal confirmation that he is ineligible for future elections has offered a sense of relief.
On the other hand, there are those who feel that the ruling has given them a chance to “breathe” and move on from what they perceived as Lungu’s authoritarian tendencies. An individual expressed their relief, saying, “Let them breathe and gain weight now,” alluding to the stress and pressure many felt under Lungu’s leadership. This reaction is indicative of the fatigue and frustration many felt with his governance.
Not everyone is pleased with the outcome, however. Some have raised concerns about the implications of the court’s ruling. A commentator, Ackson Junior Shema, pointed out that the issue should not be about political parties but rather about adhering to the Constitution. This highlights the ongoing debate over how constitutional interpretation impacts political leadership and future electoral fairness.
Others are pondering the political scenario had Lungu won the 2021 election. One person questioned, “Since ECL (Edgar Chagwa Lungu) was eligible to contest in 2021, had he won, would that have been his third term?” This query reflects the uncertainty surrounding the interpretation of Lungu’s first term and the ongoing discussions about how the Constitution defines presidential term limits.
For many, the ruling reinforces the idea that Lungu’s desire for power had become insatiable. One critic remarked, “His insatiable appetite for power makes him look foolish.” This view reflects the perception of Lungu as a leader who overstayed his welcome and whose attempts to seek a third term were driven by personal ambition rather than national interest.
Despite the divisive reactions, the Constitutional Court’s ruling has clarified the matter of Lungu’s eligibility, putting an end to years of legal battles and speculation. With the official decision now made, many citizens are urging the country to focus on the future. “Let’s now get back to looking for money… Ichola wetata,” remarked one observer, emphasizing the need to move on from political turmoil and focus on economic stability.
As Zambia moves forward, questions about the future of its political landscape remain. While some are celebrating the ruling, others are preparing for the next phase of the country’s political evolution. Ultimately, the ruling is a reminder of the importance of adhering to the Constitution and respecting the democratic process.
