The family of Zambia’s former President Edgar Lungu has delayed the repatriation of his body from South Africa.
The decision comes after the family accused the government of breaking important funeral arrangements that had been agreed upon in advance.
Lungu’s remains were initially scheduled to arrive in Zambia on Wednesday via a private charter flight.
However, tensions between the government and his relatives have led to a cancellation of that plan.
During a press briefing, family spokesperson Makebi Zulu announced that the former president’s body would no longer return on June 18, 2025.
He stated the family could not trust that the authorities would uphold their commitments regarding funeral arrangements.
Concerns Over Roadworks and Restricted Public Access
Two developments were central to the family’s decision to delay the repatriation.
On June 16, the Road Development Agency (RDA) began construction along the agreed funeral route from Crossroads to Chifwema.
This work occurred without informing or consulting the family.
Though the construction was eventually halted after complaints, the incident was seen as a violation of the initial agreement.
The following day, on June 17, Cabinet Secretary Patrick Kangwa released a statement announcing restricted public access to the airport for Lungu’s return.
Once again, the family claimed they were not consulted beforehand.
Zulu emphasized that both actions undermined the spirit of cooperation between the family and the state.
Government Involvement Opposes Lungu’s Final Wishes
Another major source of conflict lies in the role of President Hakainde Hichilema.
According to the family, Edgar Lungu had explicitly stated he did not want President Hichilema involved in his funeral.
Despite this, a government funeral schedule released earlier this week listed Hichilema as the leader of both the reception and a church service.
This directly contradicts what the family described as the late president’s final wishes.
Due to these ongoing concerns, the family said they could no longer continue with the planned arrangements.
Zulu stated that they hope the remains of President Lungu will eventually be brought home and buried respectfully.
National Mourning Observed in Zambia
Edgar Lungu passed away in South Africa earlier this month while undergoing medical treatment.
Following his death, Zambia began a 16-day period of national mourning.
Despite political differences, an agreement had been reached that allowed President Hichilema to lead Lungu’s state funeral on Sunday.
That deal now appears to be in jeopardy due to the renewed tensions and the decision to cancel the repatriation.
Lungu served as president of Zambia from 2015 to 2021 before losing the general election to Hichilema.
A Delicate Political and Emotional Situation
This situation highlights the sensitive balance between honoring a former leader and respecting the wishes of his grieving family.
While the government may view its actions as necessary for national protocol, the family insists on preserving Lungu’s personal dignity.
Without renewed trust and transparent communication, the possibility of a smooth and respectful funeral continues to hang in the balance.
The nation watches closely as one of its most prominent leaders awaits a final homecoming.