Former President Edgar Lungu to Be Buried in South Africa
The family of former President Edgar Lungu has announced that his remains will be laid to rest in South Africa, following government advice that the family should have the discretion to settle the burial dispute.
Makebi Zulu, the family spokesperson, shared in a statement that the decision to hold Mr. Lungu’s funeral abroad reflects the family’s desire for a private ceremony.
“This has been an incredibly emotional time for the family, and we are grateful for the overwhelming support and condolences received from across the continent and the world.
“We want to extend our sincere thanks to the Government of the Republic of South Africa for their respectful assistance and for accommodating the family’s request for a private funeral and burial,” Mr. Zulu stated.
He praised South Africa for its “non-interference and adherence to the South African Constitution, as well as for respecting the family’s wishes, which allows us the space to grieve and celebrate the life of our beloved Edgar Chagwa Lungu with dignity and peace.”
Mr. Zulu also highlighted the recent visit from South Africa’s Minister for International Relations, Mr. Ronald Lamola, who came to express condolences on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“The Lungu family is dedicated to promoting peace and unity among Zambians during this time, and we appreciate all friends, supporters, and the public for their understanding, compassion, and willingness to mourn the former head of state, who, as decided by the family, will be buried here in Johannesburg, South Africa, at a private funeral.
“Further details regarding the funeral arrangements and burial will be provided to the public in both Zambia and South Africa in due course,” he remarked.
Earlier today, during the Vice-President’s question time, Vice-President Mutale Nalumango urged Zambians to allow the Lungu family to independently manage the burial situation.
In a national address yesterday, President Hakainde Hichilema indicated that Mr. Lungu, who passed away on June 5, 2025, in South Africa, would be buried in Zambia.
Following Mr. Lungu’s death while receiving medical treatment in South Africa, a conflict emerged between his family and the government concerning the burial arrangements.
The government faced backlash for allegedly breaching a prior agreement related to the former president’s burial.
The family had previously indicated that Mr. Lungu expressed a desire for President Hichilema to have no involvement with his body after his passing.
