Constitutional Court Questioned Over Possibility of Lungu’s Third Term

Joseph Busenga, Lusaka resident and civil activist, has sued the Attorney General of the Constitutional Court, seeking interpretation of Article 106 following questions around Lungu’s eligibility to run for a third term in government.  

Busenga is unsure whether someone who has been elected twice, sworn in twice and has exercised Presidential powers twice, is eligible to be elected for a third time.

Article 106(3) of the Constitution currently states that “A person who has twice held office as President is not eligible for election as President”.   

In spite of the Article’s clarity, Lungu is still running for 2021-2026 Presidency.  

Lungu’s first term as president lasted for 18 months, a shorter term than usual, which has resulted in confusion and questions arising over his legitimacy to run for a third term in office.

Lawyers and Political leaders have disputed this possibility, commenting that “There is no provision for a third term in our Constitution!”.  

Photo: Lusaka Times