Constitutional Court Declares Edgar Lungu Ineligible for 2026 Elections Under Article 106
Lungu Not Eligible For Elections,In a landmark decision that has sparked national debate, the Constitutional Court of Zambia has ruled that former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu is not eligible to contest the 2026 general elections. The judgment is based on the interpretation of Article 106 of the Zambian Constitution, which governs presidential term limits and eligibility.
According to the Court, Edgar Lungu has already served two full terms in office—first from 2015 to 2016, after the death of President Michael Sata, and then from 2016 to 2021 following his re-election. Despite arguments from his supporters that the first term was partial and therefore not subject to the two-term limit rule, the Court maintained that Lungu’s time in office qualifies as two terms under constitutional law.
This ruling puts to rest months of speculation and political tension surrounding Lungu’s potential return to the ballot. Supporters from the Patriotic Front (PF) had hoped that he would contest again, believing he was eligible based on his first shortened term. However, the court’s interpretation of Article 106 (3) and (6) clarifies that a person who has twice held office as President is barred from seeking election again.
The decision is seen as a major victory for constitutionalism and the rule of law in Zambia, reaffirming the principle that no one is above the constitution. It also reshapes the political landscape ahead of the 2026 elections, forcing the PF to look for a new presidential candidate.
As the country prepares for the next electoral cycle, this ruling marks a significant moment in Zambia’s democratic journey—emphasizing the importance of legal clarity and institutional independence in upholding the nation’s supreme law.
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