Latest - Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu to Be Buried in South Africa After Family-Government Dispute

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu

Reporter The family of the late Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has confirmed that the former head of state will be laid to rest in Johannesburg, South Africa, following a private family ceremony.

In a statement issued today, Lungu family spokesperson Hon. Makebi Zulu said this is in accordance with the family’s wishes. Hon. Zulu expressed deep appreciation for the support received from across Africa and commended the South African government for its non-interference and respect for their decision.

In the statement, Hon. Zulu said that the family seeks peace and unity amongst fellow Zambians during this time and thanked all friends, supporters, and members of the public for their understanding, compassion, and willingness to mourn the former Head of State.

He further added that more funeral details will be communicated in due course. This development follows a statement by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema where he acknowledged the dispute over funeral arrangements with the Lungu family and announced the official end of the mourning period on the 19th of June. Previously, the government had indicated that Lungu would be given a state funeral on Monday the 23rd of June, which the Lungu family had disputed, citing that the government had made the announcement without fully consulting them. Mr. Hichilema, however, said the government had made numerous efforts to engage the family and representatives of the late president in order to reach consensus in this matter.