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The family of Zambia’s late former president Edgar Lungu has reached an agreement with the government, ending days of tension over his funeral arrangements.
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Lungu, who served as Zambia’s president from 2015 to 2021, passed away 10 days ago in South Africa while undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness. His death sparked controversy after reports emerged that he had expressed a wish for current President Hakainde Hichilema—his political rival—not to attend his funeral.
However, the deadlock has been resolved. The Lungu family has now confirmed that President Hichilema will lead a state funeral scheduled for Sunday, June 22.
Details of the revised funeral plan include:
- Lungu’s body will arrive in Lusaka on Wednesday aboard a private charter plane.
- Upon arrival, the body will be received by family members and accorded full military honours.
- It will then be taken to the former president’s residence to lie in state.
- From Thursday, the body will be displayed at a conference centre in the capital for public viewing over three days.
- The state funeral will be held on Sunday, with the official mourning period ending on Monday.
- His burial will take place next Monday, though it is yet to be confirmed whether he will be laid to rest at the official presidential burial site or at his home.
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Speaking at a joint press conference in South Africa, family spokesperson Makebi Zulu apologized for the delays, stating the family was committed to honouring Lungu’s personal wishes and hoped the government would respect their agreement.
Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa, speaking on behalf of the government, urged national unity and thanked citizens for their patience during the mourning period.
Lungu, who lost the presidency to Hichilema in 2021, initially stepped away from politics but later re-entered the scene. His political comeback was cut short last year when the Constitutional Court barred him from running again, citing that he had already served the constitutional maximum of two terms.
Despite his disqualification, Lungu remained a vocal political figure and often criticized President Hichilema’s administration. He previously alleged government harassment and travel restrictions—claims denied by state authorities.
