Zambia's former president Frederick Chiluba, 68, who ruled the country from 1991 to 2001, died at his home early Saturday, his spokesman said.

"He died five minutes after midnight at his home," Emmanuel Mwamba told AFP.

The embattled leader had been suffering from heart and kidney problems but Mwamba said he had earlier complained of stomach pains.

"We will release more details later in the day," said Mwamba.

His image was tainted by a lengthy corruption trial, stemming from abuse of authority and theft of public funds amounting to 500,000 dollars (319,000 euros) while in office.

He was later acquitted of the charges in 2008.