In a move that has captivated the region, Zambia's parliament has declared the Chawama constituency seat vacant, held by Tasila Lungu, the daughter of the late former President Edgar Lungu. The decision, announced by Speaker Nelly Mutti, follows Ms. Lungu's extended absence since her father's death in June 2025.

The core of the issue lies in a prolonged and deeply personal family dispute over the late president's burial, which has kept Ms. Lungu in South Africa. This impasse between the Lungu family and the current government, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, has prevented her from returning to her parliamentary duties, leaving her constituents without representation for nearly six months.

A Constitutional Mandate

Speaker Mutti cited Article 72 of the Zambian Constitution, emphasizing that the prolonged absence left the people of Chawama without a voice in the National Assembly. Directives had been issued since July 2025, requiring Ms. Lungu to return within a specified timeframe after her father's burial or the start of the new parliamentary session. Despite these notices and a referral to the Committee on Privileges and Absences, Ms. Lungu did not appear or formally respond.

A suggestion by the committee to allow for virtual attendance was ultimately rejected by the Speaker, who maintained that physical representation was essential. This decision sets a firm precedent on the obligations of elected officials, regardless of personal circumstances.

A Nation Divided

The reaction among Zambians has been sharply divided. Supporters of Ms. Lungu argue the decision is heartless, punishing a daughter for grieving her father under complex and public circumstances. They point to her dedication to the Chawama constituency and the unique pressures of a political family in mourning. One supporter noted, "She has done what many others in parliament have not – truly served her constituency with passion and commitment."

Conversely, many citizens and political analysts believe the Speaker's action was a necessary upholding of constitutional duty. They argue that while the situation is tragic, the needs of a constituency cannot be indefinitely suspended. "We sympathise with her situation, but we also need a functioning representative," a local trader was quoted as saying. The move now triggers a by-election for the Chawama seat within the next 90 days.

In a statement to her constituents, Ms. Lungu acknowledged the development and hinted at a possible challenge, stating, "Where there is a will there is a way." The coming weeks will determine whether this political saga continues in the courts or at the ballot box.