Ex-President Lungu’s Family and Government Resolve Funeral Dispute

The Lungu family and Zambian government reached an agreement regarding the details of former president Edgar Lungu's funeral, ensuring state honors while respecting family wishes.

After weeks of uncertainty, the funeral arrangements for former Zambian President Edgar Lungu have been officially agreed upon by his family and the government. Lungu, who served as president from 2015 to 2021, passed away 11 days ago in South Africa while undergoing treatment for an unspecified illness. The Lungu family had previously indicated that the former president wished for his political rival, current President Hakainde Hichilema, to stay away from any funeral proceedings. However, a family spokesperson has now confirmed a compromise has been reached allowing Hichilema to oversee the state funeral scheduled for next Sunday.

Prior to the agreement, confusion surrounded how the public should express their grief for the former leader. Following negotiations, the arrangements state that Lungu’s body will be transported back to Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, on Wednesday via a private charter. Upon arrival, the body will receive full military honors before being taken to his residence in Lusaka where it will lie in state.

From Thursday onward, Lungu’s remains will be displayed at a conference center for public visitation. The state funeral service is expected to occur on June 22, with official mourning concluding the following day. While plans for his burial are still being finalized, it remains uncertain whether he will be interred in the official presidential cemetery or at his residence.

During a press briefing held in South Africa, Makebi Zulu, spokesperson for the Lungu family, expressed regret for any distress caused during the lengthy negotiations, emphasizing their aim to honor the former president's wishes. He stressed that the family expects the government to adhere to the agreed terms.

Echoing Zulu's sentiments, Patrick Kangwa, Secretary to the Cabinet, called for unity among Zambians and expressed gratitude for their patience during this difficult period. Lungu, who lost the presidency to Hichilema in the 2021 elections, had since stepped back from political life but aspired to return until a court decision barred him from running again, ruling he had reached the maximum term limit. Despite this setback, Lungu maintained significant influence in Zambian politics, often criticizing his successor, and alleging harassment by police forces, claims the government has refuted.