Zambia has set June 23 as the date for the state funeral of former President Edgar Lungu following prolonged negotiations between the government and his family over repatriation and burial arrangements.
Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa confirmed that after days of uncertainty, the government and Lungu’s family reached an agreement on Sunday to hold a state funeral.
“In accordance with the family’s wishes and the dignity befitting the service of the Sixth President to our nation, a state funeral shall be held and shall be presided over by the President of the Republic of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, culminating in the president’s burial on Monday, June 23,” Kangwa said.
Lungu, who passed away on June 5 in South Africa, was initially expected to be repatriated on June 11 but the process was delayed due to ongoing consultations between the government and his family.
Kangwa said, contrary to assertions by the Lungu family and his political party, the Zambian government had granted passage for the former president’s medical treatment in South Africa but efforts to provide further support were declined by the family.
“I offered that we get Dr Njovu [Lungu’s personal doctor] and our Minister of Health and Permanent Secretary to discuss so that we could support the Sixth President in his passage to South Africa. However, it is on record, Professor Njovu wrote back to me, advising me that this was for my information and not for any support.”
The negotiations surrounding Lungu’s funeral reflect long-standing tensions between his family and the government.
Lungu, who served as Zambia’s sixth president from 2015 to 2021, remained a prominent political figure even after leaving office.
His relationship with the current administration had been marked by disputes, including allegations of harassment and restrictions on his movements.
Despite the challenges, the government said it was committed to honouring Lungu’s legacy while ensuring a dignified farewell.
JN/APA