Zambians Mourn the Loss of FDD President Edith Nawakwi
Zambians both at home and abroad are in mourning following the death of the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) President, Hon. Edith Zewelanji Nawakwi, who passed away in the early hours of today at the age of 66. The news has left a heavy heart in the nation, with many recalling her immense contributions to Zambia’s political landscape.
In a heartfelt statement, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, the Sixth Republican President and PF President, shared his deep sorrow over the loss. He described Edith Nawakwi as a “true sister” and a “gallant political soldier”, reflecting on the close family friendship between Nawakwi and himself and his wife, Ether Lungu.
“As we mourn our beloved sister, mother, and patriotic leader, the death of President Edith Nawakwi serves as a harsh reminder of how political bitterness has marred the country’s governance. Unfortunately, the government failed to provide the necessary support when she needed it the most,” said Lungu.
Nawakwi, who had been battling illness in recent months, was admitted to Coptic Hospital, and efforts were underway to facilitate her evacuation to India for specialized treatment. However, Lungu criticized the government’s lack of assistance in facilitating this treatment, contrasting it with the swift response during the late President Michael Sata’s illness when he was evacuated to South Africa by then-President Levy Mwanawasa.
Lungu highlighted the “punitive politics” that Nawakwi faced during her final years, including the harsh treatment by police officers while she was hospitalized in April 2023. On two separate occasions, Zambia police officers stormed University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in a politically motivated attempt to arrest her while she was under medical care.
“It was morally regrettable that a sick national leader was treated with such cruelty. The abuse she endured under the UPND government was a departure from our national traditions and values,” Lungu expressed. He also mentioned her arrest in 2023, which he described as unnecessary, adding that she was forced to omit her vital medication during her time in police custody.
Dr. Lungu also pointed out the inhumane request made by the state prosecutor, Sitali Muyangwa, to move Nawakwi’s trial to her sickbed due to her continuous absence from court. Lungu condemned this as another form of political vengeance against Nawakwi, adding to the stress she faced in her final days.
As Zambia reflects on Nawakwi’s legacy, Lungu emphasized her significant role in the country’s history. Under the leadership of President Frederick Chiluba, Nawakwi made history as the first woman to serve as Zambia’s Minister of Finance, a position she held from 1998. She also held various other key positions, including Minister of Energy and Water Development, Minister of Agriculture, and Minister of Labour and Social Security.
In his call for unity, Lungu urged Zambians and members of the Tonse Alliance to honor Nawakwi’s memory with “true love, grace, patriotism, and national unity”, remembering her as a leader who worked tirelessly for the nation.
“May Her Soul Rest In Eternal Peace,” Lungu concluded.
Across the nation, citizens and political figures have expressed their grief over the loss of Edith Nawakwi, praising her for her resilience, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Zambian people.
Nawakwi’s passing has also sparked debates on the treatment of opposition leaders in Zambia, with many calling for more compassion and less political animosity in the future.
