Lusaka, Zambia | 19th June 2025 – President Hakainde Hichilema has announced the official end of Zambia’s national mourning period for former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, following a two-week stalemate over his state funeral arrangements.
In a solemn address to the nation on 19th June, President Hichilema expressed regret over the failure to repatriate Lungu’s remains from South Africa, despite earlier agreements with the late leader’s family.
The mourning period began on 5th June, following the death of Zambia’s sixth Republican President. Hichilema praised the nation for its patience and unity during this time, thanking religious and traditional leaders, as well as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, for their support.
A breakthrough appeared imminent when, on 15th June, a mutual understanding was reached between the Zambian government and Lungu’s family. Plans were set for the former president’s remains to be repatriated on 18th June, with a state burial scheduled for 23rd June.
However, in a sudden reversal, the family did not present the body for transport, leaving the South African Defence Force’s military honours unused.
With the mourning period extended once already, Hichilema stated that Zambia must now return to normalcy.
“Mr. Lungu was not only an ordinary citizen but our sixth Republican President,” he said. “While we recognise that he belongs to a family, he also belongs to the nation of Zambia. It is therefore correct that he should be buried in Zambia with full honours, and not in any other nation.”
The government has now closed the official mourning period but reiterated its willingness to engage with the Lungu family for a resolution.
Amid rising tensions, Hichilema urged citizens to remain peaceful, warning against any lawlessness.
“Let us remain united as a nation and maintain the peace we are known for,” he said.
He extended condolences once more to the Lungu family and all Zambians, praying for the late leader’s soul to “rest in eternal peace.”
The government’s stance leaves the fate of Lungu’s burial uncertain, but Hichilema’s message was clear: Zambia must move forward while honouring its former leader with dignity.
