State rejects Edgar Lungu’s plea to re-instate his benefits

The state has rejected the plea by former republican President Edgar Lungu to have his benefits reinstated following his public announcement that he has come back into active politics.

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha has cited section 5 (1) of the benefits of former presidents’ act chapter 15 of the laws of Zambia, which prohibits the payment of benefits to a former president who is engaged in active politics.

Recently, the former President through his lawyer, Likanda Kalaluka, wrote to the attorney general demanding the state to accord him the full compliments of the benefits that he is entitled to which includes a fully functional office and vehicles among other benefits.

Mr. Kalaluka described the state decision as a violation of their client’s freedom of expression, association and assembly for indicating an intention to hold an elective office.

On November 1st, 2023, the state removed Mr. Lungu from his payroll, closed his office with immediate effect, redeployed all his staff, removed security, accommodation, transport and other requirements.

Source:Zambiareports