Govt upholds patient confidentiality for Former President Edgar Lungu and Edith Nawakwi

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Health Minister, Elijah Muchima, has reiterated that the government cannot disclose the health status of former President Edgar Lungu and Edith Zewelani Nawakwi, President of the Forum for Democracy and Development, due to medical practitioners' ethics.

This stance prioritizes patient confidentiality and upholds the sacrosanct Doctor-Patient relationship.

The Minister's statement came in response to a point of order raised by Chasefu Independent Member of Parliament Misheck Nyambose, who questioned the lack of updates on the former President's health.

Mr. Muchima has emphasized that every Zambian, including former leaders, is entitled to access quality medical services and privacy as enshrined in the Zambian Constitution.

He said while the government has been providing medical support to the former President, both locally and abroad, details of his health status remain confidential.

Mr. Muchima said the last appointment made by the government was for the former President to travel to Pretoria, South Africa, on medical grounds in September 2023, but he was unable to travel due to personal commitments.

“In January 2025, the government was informed that the former President would travel to South Africa for medical attention, but he later opted to cover all costs related to his travel and medical care”, he explained.

The Minister said the government's commitment to providing medical support to all citizens, including former leaders, remains unwavering, regardless of their political affiliation.

Meanwhile Mr. Muchima said the government is committed to providing assistance and is in constant communication with Ms. Nawakwi and her relatives to understand her needs.

The Minister has also assured the nation that the government will keep them informed about any developments regarding Nawakwi and Former President Edgar Lungu’'s situation.

Ms. Nawakwi, a seasoned politician and economist, has had a distinguished career, serving as Zambia's first female Finance Minister from 1998 to 1999.

She has also been the President of the Forum for Democracy and Development since 2005.

Ends……..

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