The Zambian government has officially concluded the national mourning period for the late 6th Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, marking the end of two weeks of reflection, mourning, and unexpected controversy. President Hakainde Hichilema addressed the nation on June 19, confirming the decision and urging citizens to begin returning to normal life.
The mourning period, which began after the former president’s passing, was intended to culminate in a state funeral with full honours. Over the past two weeks, the government worked to unite various stakeholders, including the church, traditional leaders, and citizens, in a shared moment of national grief and remembrance. Diplomatic efforts were also launched to ensure a dignified repatriation and burial, following what had appeared to be a successful agreement with Lungu’s family.
Former Vice President Enock Kavindele, Chief Mumbi, senior government officials, and envoys were part of the high-level team that helped negotiate the funeral arrangements. A breakthrough was reached in South Africa, leading to a joint press briefing on June 15. The government extended the mourning period to accommodate the revised funeral schedule, with preparations made to receive the remains on June 18 and conduct a state burial on June 23.
Despite this agreement, the process took an unexpected turn when Lungu’s family reversed their decision, declining to repatriate his remains as scheduled. The South African government, which had prepared a full ceremonial send-off including military honours, was left in an awkward position. The Zambian government expressed regret over the outcome and acknowledged the effort and cooperation of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the people of South Africa.
The failed repatriation marked a critical turning point, prompting the government to declare an end to the national mourning. Officials emphasized that while the late president was a family member, his role as a national leader necessitated a state-led burial in Zambia. With no resolution in sight and in the interest of national stability, the government resolved to bring the mourning period to a close.
Zambians were urged to maintain calm, order, and unity in the face of the ongoing situation. The government reaffirmed its willingness to continue engaging with the family but made it clear that lawlessness would not be tolerated during this period.
As the nation closes this chapter, the legacy of Edgar Lungu remains a subject of both personal and public reflection. The government reiterated its respect for his service while calling on citizens to uphold Zambia’s long-standing reputation as a peaceful and law-abiding country.