Ex-president Lungu applauds Trump’s win, harps on political resilience, leadership

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has extended his congratulations to Donald Trump on his election as the 47th President of the United States, calling it a landmark victory and one of the most consequential polls in American history.

In a message shared on Facebook on Wednesday, Lungu commended Trump for his resilience and determination despite what he described as an unprecedented level of scrutiny and “persecution” faced by a former U.S. president.

He credited Trump’s success to “political discipline, leadership tenacity and patriotic campaign messaging,” which he said had resonated deeply with voters.

“Allow me to join the rest of the world in congratulating the incoming 47th President of the United States of America, His Excellency Donald J. Trump, who has today won the most consequential Presidential poll in the history of his country,” Lungu wrote.

Reflecting on the significance of Trump’s comeback, Lungu referenced a local saying in Zambia’s Bemba language, noting that people would describe such a return to power as “Nabwelelapo pamupando,” meaning “he has bounced back into power.”

Lungu also highlighted the global importance of the U.S. election, remarking that despite the geographical distance, developments in the United States have “direct universal impact” politically, economically, and diplomatically, as the world becomes increasingly interconnected.

The former Zambian president voiced his hope that Trump’s leadership would contribute to global stability, specifically calling for his involvement in mediating peace in the Gaza-Israel and Russia-Ukraine conflicts.

Additionally, Lungu praised the American judicial and electoral systems for ensuring Trump could freely contest the election.

He commented on the absence of what he termed “lawfare” — the use of legal processes to bar candidates from participating — as a principle Zambia could learn from.

“Fellow Zambians, join me in celebrating the Trump victory and in commending Vice President Kamala Harris for her spirited campaign. Zambia could learn a lot from this election,” he said, noting that allowing candidates to contest freely strengthens democratic systems.

Lungu closed his message by reiterating his support for Trump’s victory and expressing optimism for a new era of global peace and cooperation under his leadership.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.