The Government of Zambia has confirmed its final position on the burial dispute involving former President Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu following a ruling from the Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa. Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana addressed the nation in a press briefing held yesterday and clarified that the state will not pursue any further legal action. The announcement brings closure to a long-running legal matter that had attracted public attention in both Zambia and South Africa. Government officials explained that while they do not agree with the court’s judgment, they will respect the outcome. The decision marks a significant moment in the handling of state funerals and the treatment of former Heads of State.
Mr. Kawana stated that Government has resolved not to take the matter to the Constitutional Court of South Africa. He explained that this position is consistent with earlier communication from Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha, who indicated that the matter had reached its conclusion from the Government’s side. The legal route has therefore been formally closed by the state despite its disagreement with the ruling. Officials stressed that the decision was guided by respect for judicial processes and finality in legal disputes. The Government also made it clear that its focus is now on moving forward rather than prolonging court proceedings.
Following the court outcome, the burial arrangements for former President Lungu have been confirmed as a private family matter. This means the Lungu family is now free to proceed with burial plans in South Africa without further Government involvement in the legal process. Mr. Kawana noted that the state had engaged over the past year with the intention of ensuring that the former President is honoured in line with established national tradition. That tradition has seen former Heads of State laid to rest at Embassy Park with full state honours. The Government maintained that its position was guided by consistency with how previous Presidents have been honoured in Zambia.
The Permanent Secretary also highlighted that Zambia has a long-standing practice of repatriating its citizens and leaders who die abroad so they can be buried at home. He said this approach reflects national values and a desire for leaders to be laid to rest among their people. Despite this position, he acknowledged that the family had chosen a different path regarding burial arrangements. Mr. Kawana further expressed Government’s continued condolences to the bereaved family during this period of mourning. He paid tribute to Dr. Lungu’s service to the nation, noting his leadership role from 2015 to 2021 and his contribution to national development and political history.
In closing remarks, Government called for unity, peace and respect among citizens as the country reflects on the life and legacy of the former President. Mr. Kawana assured the nation that Dr. Lungu will continue to be recognised as a former Head of State in all future national remembrance activities. He urged Zambians to focus on shared values during this period of reflection rather than division. The statement reinforced the importance of national cohesion in moments of political and historical significance. Government’s message emphasized dignity, respect and continuity in honoring past leaders.