The return of Zambia’s former President Edgar Lungu’s body from South Africa was delayed due to a bitter dispute between his family, the opposition Patriotic Front, and the government. This report explains the reasons, the resolution, and what it means for Zambia’s political future.
The death of Zambia’s sixth president, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, in South Africa on June 5, 2025, was met with national grief, but also with controversy. For days, his body remained in Pretoria, as a dispute between his family, the opposition Patriotic Front (PF), and the Zambian government delayed his return and funeral arrangements.
The Dispute: Reasons and Accusations
1. Political Tensions and Personal Wishes
Lungu’s reported wish that current President Hakainde Hichilema “should not come anywhere near his body” became a flashpoint. The family and PF insisted on respecting these wishes, viewing any government involvement as a political intrusion. This demand was seen as a reflection of the deep personal and political rivalry between Lungu and Hichilema, who had faced off in multiple elections.
2. Accusations of Politicization and Broken Agreements
Lungu’s family and the PF accused the government of politicizing the funeral and acting unilaterally. Family spokesperson Makebi Zulu stated:
“The family finds it very difficult to believe that the government would stick to their end of the agreement. We agreed on certain arrangements, but these have been changed without our consent.”
Key points of contention included the route of the funeral procession and the number of family members allowed to receive the body. The government’s announcement of roadworks on the agreed route and restrictions on public participation were seen as direct breaches of prior agreements.
3. Allegations of Medical Neglect
The PF and Lungu’s family also claimed that Lungu had been restricted from seeking medical treatment abroad for years, which they said contributed to his death. The government strongly denied these allegations, with officials stating that Lungu was never barred from traveling and that the state had even offered logistical support for his medical evacuation.
The Role of the Patriotic Front (PF)
The PF, Lungu’s former party, played a central role in the dispute. They organized their own condolence books and urged supporters to gather at PF headquarters, creating a parallel mourning process. This led to confusion among Zambians about where and how to pay their respects.
Official Government Statements
Government spokesperson Kangwa emphasized the administration’s commitment to a dignified send-off:
“At no point did the government obstruct his travel or medical care. We are committed to honoring the former president’s legacy and ensuring a respectful farewell for him and his family.”
Resolution and Current Status
After several days of negotiations—including mediation by former Malawian President Bakili Muluzi—a compromise was reached. The government extended the period of national mourning and agreed to a state funeral with some concessions to the family’s wishes. However, as of June 17, 2025, the family had still not allowed the repatriation of Lungu’s body, citing ongoing mistrust.
Family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, speaking from South Africa, said:
“We hope that one day, his remains will be brought back home for burial. We want a dignified farewell, not a political spectacle.”
By June 18, reports indicated that the family had finally agreed to the repatriation, with the government promising to respect the agreed-upon arrangements.
Context: Edgar Lungu’s Legacy
Edgar Lungu's presidency was a mix of achievement and controversy. He is credited with significant infrastructure development and with appointing Zambia’s first female vice president. However, his tenure also saw economic challenges, including Zambia’s first sovereign debt default in 2020, and accusations of authoritarianism, such as the arrest of political rivals and restrictions on press freedom. His legacy remains deeply contested.
Industry and Expert Commentary
Analysts, including those cited by BBC Africa and Capital FM Kenya, note that the dispute reflects broader political tensions in Zambia. The country’s transition from Lungu’s rule to Hichilema’s administration has been marked by lingering mistrust and polarization. The funeral dispute has highlighted the challenges of honoring a polarizing leader in a divided society.
What It Means Going Forward
The delay in repatriating Edgar Lungu’s body underscores the fragility of Zambia’s political reconciliation. While the issue has been resolved, the episode serves as a reminder of the need for national healing and dialogue. For Zambians, the hope is that Lungu’s final journey home will mark the beginning of a more united and respectful political culture.
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