Johnson Progress

The late former Zambian President Edgar Lungu’s remains are yet to be buried nearly six months after his passing due to an ongoing dispute between his family and the Zambian government over funeral arrangements.

According to reports, the family had initially planned to bury Lungu in South Africa, where he died on June 5, 2025, while receiving medical treatment.

However, the Zambian government contested this decision, seeking a state funeral in Zambia.

A South African court ruled in August 2025 that Lungu’s body must be repatriated to Zambia for a state funeral, a decision that has led to ongoing appeals and legal negotiations.

The Lungu family has expressed concerns that President Hakainde Hichilema, a longstanding political rival, would not provide a dignified sendoff.

Makebi Zulu, a family spokesperson, stated, “The government is trying to strip the family of dignity, disguise it as protocol, and then call it unity.”

The Zambian government, however, maintains that Lungu should be buried in Zambia with full military honors, as is customary for former heads of state.

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha emphasized that the government is committed to honoring Lungu’s legacy and providing a dignified funeral.

Efforts to mediate between the two parties have been ongoing, with church leaders and regional dignitaries attempting to broker a resolution.

However, as of early September 2025, Lungu’s body remains in South Africa, and the burial has not yet taken place.

The prolonged dispute has sparked concerns about the impact on national unity and the dignity of the office of the presidency.

As one commentator noted, “Zambia is a Republic governed by the rule of law, not by whims of emotion or political grudges and hatred.”

The South African court has dismissed the family’s appeal, ruling that Lungu’s body should be handed over to the Zambian government for a state funeral.

The family has exhausted its legal options, and the Zambian government is expected to proceed with arrangements for the repatriation and burial of the former president.