Zambia's leaders want Edgar Lungu buried at home after his death on June 5, 2025. The former president died receiving medical care in South Africa. His family decided to bury him there instead of bringing him back to Zambia. This choice breaks tradition and shows the bad relationship between Lungu and current President Hakainde Hichilema. The two leaders had serious disagreements before Lungu passed away.
South African Minister Ronald Lamola visited Hichilema on Sunday to offer sympathy. He brought messages from President Cyril Ramaphosa about Lungu's death. The two men talked about where to bury the former leader. Hichilema told Lamola that Lungu belongs in his home country. He thanked South Africa for taking good care of Lungu during his sickness.
Some problems happened when officials tried to bring Lungu's body back to Zambia on June 18. Hichilema said sorry to South Africa's army for the trouble this caused. Opposition party members from Lungu's Patriotic Front traveled to South Africa for the funeral. Party leader Given Lubinda joined others preparing for the burial ceremony. Nobody has announced the exact date or location for the service.
The ruling party defended keeping Lungu's body in Zambia. Party spokesman Mark Simuuwe asked all citizens to stay peaceful during this difficult time. He urged people from different political groups to work together. The government wants to protect Zambia's reputation for staying calm during crises. Officials hope everyone can respect each other despite their political differences.
South African Minister Ronald Lamola visited Hichilema on Sunday to offer sympathy. He brought messages from President Cyril Ramaphosa about Lungu's death. The two men talked about where to bury the former leader. Hichilema told Lamola that Lungu belongs in his home country. He thanked South Africa for taking good care of Lungu during his sickness.
Some problems happened when officials tried to bring Lungu's body back to Zambia on June 18. Hichilema said sorry to South Africa's army for the trouble this caused. Opposition party members from Lungu's Patriotic Front traveled to South Africa for the funeral. Party leader Given Lubinda joined others preparing for the burial ceremony. Nobody has announced the exact date or location for the service.
The ruling party defended keeping Lungu's body in Zambia. Party spokesman Mark Simuuwe asked all citizens to stay peaceful during this difficult time. He urged people from different political groups to work together. The government wants to protect Zambia's reputation for staying calm during crises. Officials hope everyone can respect each other despite their political differences.
