Edgar Lungu to Be Laid to Rest in South Africa Amid Controversy
The family of Edgar Lungu, Zambia’s former president, has announced that he will be interred in South Africa in a private ceremony following a dispute with the Zambian government regarding his funeral arrangements. The announcement came after an intense standoff between the family and President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.
Funeral Plans Disrupted
Late Thursday, President Hichilema declared an end to the period of national mourning, originally set to last until June 23, after Lungu’s family objected to the repatriation of his body as previously agreed. The funeral, which was planned for Sunday in Lusaka, will instead be held in Johannesburg, where the family hopes to arrange for his burial to take place with “dignity and peace.”
“We wish to announce that the funeral and burial of our beloved Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu will take place here in South Africa, in accordance with the family’s wishes for a private ceremony,” said family spokesperson Makebi Zulu in an official statement. He also expressed gratitude to the South African government for allowing the family to make their own arrangements during this emotionally charged time.
A Divergence of Views
President Hichilema had argued that as a former head of state, Lungu should be buried in Zambia with full honors. However, upon the breakdown of discussions, he remarked that the nation must proceed to “resume normal life.” The initial period of mourning, marked by flags flying at half-mast and solemn music on the airwaves, was prematurely concluded amid rising tensions.
Political Undertones and Public Reaction
This dispute has rippled through the political landscape, with opposition from Lungu’s party, the Patriotic Front (PF), which has stood by the family’s decision. Acting PF president Given Lubinda criticized the situation, stating, “The government has turned a solemn occasion into a political game. This is not how we treat a former head of state.”
Civil society organizations and various religious leaders have also voiced concerns. Emmanuel Chikoya, the head of the Council of Churches in Zambia, called for humility and dialogue, stressing the importance of honoring Lungu’s memory while maintaining national unity.
Lungu’s Legacy
Edgar Lungu, who served as president from 2015 to 2021, passed away earlier this month in South Africa, where he had been undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness. His tenure ended when he was decisively defeated in the 2021 election by Hichilema. Although Lungu stepped back from mainstream politics, he retained significant influence and remained vocal in his criticisms of his successor.
Key Facts About Edgar Lungu’s Funeral
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | June 2025 |
| National Mourning Period | Initially June 8 – 14, Extended to June 23 |
| Burial Location | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Initial Funeral Plan | Lusaka, Zambia with State Honors |
The unfolding events surrounding Lungu’s funeral are not only a personal tragedy for his family but also resonate deeply within the political fabric of Zambia, highlighting tensions that remain significant even after his passing.
