On 8 August 2025, the Pretoria High Court ordered the repatriation of Edgar Lungu’s remains to Embassy Park, Lusaka, the official site for Zambian heads of state. Gauteng Deputy Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba delivered the judgement, siding with the Zambian government.
In June 2025, doctors treated Edgar Lungu in Pretoria for an undisclosed illness when he died; he had previously undergone treatment for achalasia.
FAMILY’S OPPOSITION AND LEGAL ARGUMENTS
Lungu’s family opposed repatriation, citing his alleged wish for a private burial in South Africa. Esther Lungu, his widow, stated in court that he wanted President Hichilema excluded from the funeral.
The family’s lawyer, Makebi Zulu, argued that the government’s claims were hearsay and lacked evidence. The court dismissed these arguments, citing national interest and protocol.
GOVERNMENT’S POSITION ON NATIONAL DIGNITY
Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha argued that the burial of former presidents is a state matter. He referenced the precedent set by President Kenneth Kaunda’s burial at Embassy Park.
In addition, the government sought four orders, including repatriation and exclusion of family control over burial arrangements.
FINAL ARRANGEMENTS AND PUBLIC REACTION
The recent court ruling only grants the Zambian government the right to a state funeral and burial in Lusaka. Furthermore, the ruling ends a two-month dispute that drew regional attention and political debate.
Government sources confirmed preparations are underway, though no burial date has been announced. The ruling has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising national unity and others criticising political interference.
SHOULD THE BURIAL RIGHTS OF FORMER LEADERS HONOUR FAMILY OR STATE?
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