Zambia Mourns the Loss of FDD Leader Hon. Edith Nawakwi at 66
LUSAKA – Zambia is in mourning following the passing of Hon. Edith Zewelani Nawakwi, a formidable political leader, economist, and advocate for democracy. The Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) President died this morning at Coptic Hospital in Lusaka, where she had been receiving treatment. She was 66.
Ms. Nawakwi’s health had been in decline for some time, with reports indicating she had been battling a long illness. Over the past two years, she had sought specialized medical treatment abroad, including multiple visits to India. Plans were in motion for another medical evacuation before her condition worsened, leading to her hospitalization.
A trailblazer in Zambian politics, Hon. Nawakwi etched her name in history in 1998 when she became the country’s first female Minister of Finance—a landmark achievement that also made her the first woman to hold such a position in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
Her political career began in the early 1990s, where she played a pivotal role in Zambia’s transition to multi-party democracy. Over the years, she served in various ministerial roles, championing economic reforms, social justice, and democratic principles.
In 2016, she made another bold move by running for the presidency, standing as one of Zambia’s few female presidential candidates. As the leader of FDD, a party she co-founded, she remained a vocal and influential figure in national discourse.
In recent months, Ms. Nawakwi had been embroiled in legal challenges, facing two counts of seditious practices. However, due to her failing health, she was unable to attend court proceedings. Her lawyer, State Counsel Chifumu Banda, had informed the Lusaka Magistrate Court that she was medically unfit to stand trial, leading to multiple adjournments.
Despite these controversies, her legacy as a pioneering leader, sharp economist, and fearless advocate for change remains undeniable. She will be remembered for her intellect, resilience, and unwavering commitment to Zambia’s development.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
May her soul rest in peace.