Kalusha Bwalya leads Zambia stars in mourning sixth president Edgar Lungu

Photo Credit – Zambia State House Media.

Africa football legend Kalusha Bwalya has led fellow Zambia football stars in mourning the country’s former president Edgar Lungu, who passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

The former head of state passed away at a hospital in South Africa, plunging the Southern African nation into mourning.

Writing on his Facebook page, Bwalya said: “President Lungu was not only a statesman but a passionate supporter of football and healthy living. I fondly remember our long runs together during his “Keep Fit” weekends and his unwavering support for the Chipolopolo.”

Leicester City FC’s Zambian striker Patson Daka also mourned Lungu, writing on his Facebook page, saying: “May Your Soul Rest In Peace, Your Excellency, until we meet again.”

Chipolopolo striker Fashion Sakala, too, remembered the departed former leader. The Saudi Arabia-based player, who remains sidelined from Chipolopolo, described the late Lungu as more than a leader.

“He was a father figure to the nation, a man of peace, wisdom, and humility. His love for Zambia and his commitment to unite us will never be forgotten. As a proud Zambian, I am grateful for the foundation he helped lay for our country. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all Zambians during this time of great loss,” Sakala wrote.

Lungu was a passionate football follower who used to attend games in Lusaka and beyond.

It is in that respect that the former African Footballer of the Year, Bwalya, Daka, Sakala and others remembered Lungu fondly.