Lessons From Tasila Lungu’s Loss of the Chawama Seat

The decision to declare the Chawama parliamentary seat vacant following Tasila Lungu’s prolonged absence is a reminder of an often-ignored principle in Zambia’s democracy: public office is a duty, not a title.

While the circumstances are undeniably sensitive, Ms. Lungu is in South Africa following the death of her father, former President Edgar Lungu, the law does not bend for individual situations, no matter how emotional they may be. Parliament’s standing orders on absenteeism are clear: MPs are elected to represent constituencies, and prolonged absence without official leave risks depriving citizens of their voice in the National Assembly.

This development exposes deeper issues that have long troubled Zambian politics.

First, the blurred line between political privilege and accountability. For years, political leaders and their families have operated with the belief that rules are negotiable. Enforcing absenteeism rules marks a shift toward stronger institutional discipline, something the country urgently needs.

Second, constituencies deserve active representation. Whether an MP is bereaved, abroad, or overwhelmed with personal matters, the reality remains, Chawama residents have gone months without effective representation. Their urgent needs, sanitation, security, youth unemployment, cannot be paused to fit personal circumstances.

Third, politics should not revolve around personalities. Ms. Lungu’s situation highlights the fragility of political roles gained through family influence rather than consistent community engagement. Leadership must be grounded in service, not political inheritance.

Fourth, this is an opportunity for Parliament to assert itself. By applying its rules, Parliament is signalling that it intends to uphold standards regardless of who is involved. This is healthy for democracy. What matters now is consistency—the same rules must apply to all MPs, not only to politically exposed individuals.

Lastly, compassion and accountability can coexist. We can acknowledge Ms. Lungu’s loss while also recognising that public roles come with non-negotiable responsibilities. Bereavement is human; governance is institutional.

Ultimately, the decision in Chawama serves as a cautionary tale, public office demands presence, commitment, and respect for the rules, regardless of one’s surname or political lineage.