A South African court has ordered the Zambian government to return the remains of former President Edgar Lungu to his family amidst ongoing legal disputes and family protests. The Zambian government took possession of Lungu’s remains on April 23, 2026, following a Pretoria High Court ruling in August 2025 that permitted repatriation.
Edgar Lungu died at the age of 68 in Pretoria on June 5, 2025, due to cardiac complications during surgery. His family wants a private burial and opposes the government’s plans for a state funeral. Relations between Lungu and current President Hakainde Hichilema were strained before Lungu’s death, contributing to a complex legal standoff over burial rights.
The court’s decision requires the Zambian government to return Lungu’s remains until a new hearing is scheduled for May 21, 2026. The family claims that due legal process was not properly followed regarding the repatriation. Emmanuel Mwamba, a lawyer for the family, stated that the information provided by the Zambian government is false as they had filed necessary legal documents.
President Hakainde Hichilema argued that as a former president, “Lungu belongs to the nation of Zambia” and should be buried there with full honors. Yet, Lungu’s family insists he would not have wanted Hichilema at his funeral.
The dispute reflects ongoing tensions between Lungu’s family and the Zambian government. Observers note that these tensions may lead to further complications in funeral arrangements. The next court date will be critical in determining how this conflict unfolds.
