President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who passed away in a Pretoria hospital on Thursday, 5 June 2025.

Mr Lungu, who was 68 years old, had been receiving medical treatment in South Africa for several weeks.

In a statement issued by the Presidency, President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to Mr Lungu’s family, as well as to the people and government of Zambia, led by President Hakainde Hichilema.

“As regional compatriots, South Africans are standing by the people of Zambia in this difficult moment,” said President Ramaphosa.

“We have had the duty and privilege in recent weeks to care for a leader from our region whom we embraced as a brother and friend.”

He added: “We therefore share the grief and loss experienced at this time by the Lungu family, as well as the Zambian nation. May his soul rest in peace.”

President Lungu served as the sixth President of Zambia from 2015 to 2021.

Details regarding memorial services or funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.