President Lungu leaves for treatment

Republican President Edgar Lungu has left for South Africa for specialized treatment following the suspected recurrence of Achalasia a condition in which the muscles of the lower part of the oesophagus fail to relax, preventing food from passing into the stomach.

President Lungu has since appointed Justice Minister Ngosa Simbyakula to act as President during his absence
President Lungu left this afternoon aboard the Presidential Challenger Jet accompanied by First Lady Esther Lungu.

He was seen off at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport by Ministers and other senior government and PF officials.
Earlier in the day President Lungu said medical doctors in South Africa will advice on what needs to be done about his medical condition.

President Lungu said he was not aware whether he will need to undergo surgery or an endoscopic procedure.

He appealed to Zambians not to worry as they will be kept informed of what medical treatment he will undergo while in South Africa.

The President stated that he feels much better and hopes to return home alive because he does not want to die on the Zambian people.