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Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema announced on Thursday the premature end of the national mourning period for his predecessor, Edgar Lungu, following a dispute over the late leader’s funeral arrangements.
Lungu, who served as president from 2015 to 2021, passed away on June 5 in a South African hospital. His body was scheduled to be repatriated with military honours on Wednesday to lie in state before burial.
However, the former president’s family refused to release the body to the South African military in protest against the government’s plans, particularly the role of President Hichilema, who was set to receive the remains upon arrival.
The tension stems from Lungu’s political rivalry with Hichilema, who defeated him decisively in the 2021 elections. The late president’s family members, including his wife and children, have been charged with corruption in what supporters allege is a politically motivated campaign.
In a televised address, Hichilema expressed surprise at the family’s refusal to hand over Lungu’s body and apologised to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for the diplomatic impasse.
He declared that the official mourning period would end immediately to allow the nation to return to normalcy.
Originally, Zambia observed a seven-day mourning period, later extended by nine days to June 23, the day after a planned state funeral. During this time, entertainment was suspended, radio stations played solemn music, and flags flew at half-mast.
Makebi Zulu, spokesperson for Lungu’s family, stated the family never consented to the government’s funeral arrangements, especially opposing Hichilema’s involvement, citing Lungu’s wishes before his death.
“We hope that one day his remains will be brought home for burial,” Zulu said.
Lungu’s daughter Tasila was arrested in 2025 on money laundering allegations, and she, alongside her mother and sister, faced fraud charges in 2024. His son Dalitso also faces corruption accusations.
