Zambia: Ex-President Lungu's Funeral Plans Finalized as Hichilema to Lead State Ceremony

After nearly two weeks of uncertainty and behind-the-scenes negotiations, Zambia has finalized state funeral plans for former President Edgar Lungu, who died 11 days ago in South Africa.

Lungu, who led Zambia from 2015 to 2021, passed away while receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness. Tensions briefly flared when it was revealed that Lungu had left strict instructions that President Hakainde Hichilema — his political rival — should not come near his body.

Despite this, a compromise was reached between Lungu’s family and the government. President Hichilema will now officially lead the state funeral scheduled for Sunday, June 22. The agreement, while controversial, aims to balance Lungu’s final wishes with national protocol.

Some Zambians expressed confusion and frustration as the dispute delayed the funeral, but officials say unity must take precedence.

“The family was doing their best to honor Lungu’s wishes,” said Makebi Zulu, family spokesperson, during a joint press briefing in South Africa. He also apologized for the delays and called for mutual respect between all parties.

Funeral Program Details:

• Wednesday, June 18: Lungu’s body will be flown to Lusaka on a private aircraft. Upon arrival, it will be received by the family before the military pays full honors.

• Wednesday Evening: The casket will be moved to Lungu’s residence in Lusaka, where it will lie in state.

• Thursday to Saturday (June 19–21): Public viewing will take place at a designated conference center.

• Sunday, June 22: A full state funeral will be held in Lusaka, led by President Hichilema.

• Monday, June 23: Burial at Embassy Park, Zambia’s official presidential burial site, followed by the end of the national mourning period.

Legacy of Edgar Lungu

Lungu left office in 2021 after losing to Hichilema in a landslide. He initially retired from politics but made headlines in 2023 with a political comeback attempt.

That bid ended when Zambia’s Constitutional Court ruled he was ineligible to run again, citing his completion of two full terms.

Though sidelined from power, Lungu remained a vocal critic of President Hichilema, accusing the government of intimidation and harassment — claims the administration denied.

“Lungu was more than just a political figure; he was a symbol of a divided yet passionate era in Zambian politics,” said political analyst Joseph Mwansa.

Government Response

Cabinet Secretary Patrick Kangwa, representing the government, expressed appreciation for the public’s patience and emphasized unity. “This is a time for Zambia to come together, not fall apart,” he said.

While political tensions remain, both the government and Lungu’s family now say they are committed to honoring the former leader with dignity.