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Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, says President Hakainde Hichilema will, at an appropriate time, address the nation and provide guidance on the repatriation of the remains of the late Sixth President of Zambia, Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
Kangwa appealed to Zambians to remain calm, united, and prayerful following the Lungu family’s decision to halt the planned repatriation of his body from South Africa, which was scheduled for Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday evening, Kangwa said the government remains open and committed to continued engagement until an amicable resolution is reached.
He explained that over the past two weeks, the government had been actively engaging the bereaved family to ensure a dignified repatriation of President Lungu’s body and the conduct of a State Funeral in Zambia.
“Government has also engaged the Government of the Republic of South Africa to assist with the repatriation of the former Head of State through diplomatic efforts, which led to arrangements for military honours to be accorded at the send-off ceremony,” Kangwa said.
Despite challenges encountered during the process, Kangwa said significant progress had been made. On Saturday, June 14, 2025, the government and the family reportedly reached a common understanding.
A joint press briefing was subsequently held in Pretoria on Sunday, June 15, 2025, where the family publicly announced a detailed programme. This included the arrival of the body in Lusaka on Wednesday, June 18, and the burial scheduled for Monday, June 23, 2025.
“In the same joint address, it was announced that President Hakainde Hichilema would superintend over the State Funeral as Head of State,” Kangwa stated.
He reaffirmed that, in line with national laws and tradition regarding the affairs of a deceased former Head of State, the government and people of Zambia are prepared to accord President Lungu full military honours.
Kangwa said the planned State Funeral was intended to honour Lungu’s service to the nation and provide citizens with the opportunity to bid him a dignified farewell.
“We are grateful for the continued mediation by senior church leaders who are faithfully serving as neutral facilitators between government and the family. Their counsel and prayers are most welcome at this delicate hour,” he added.
He urged citizens to remain peaceful and avoid speculation, divisive rhetoric, or any actions that could inflame public emotions.
“Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu served this nation at the highest level. He deserves a final resting place marked by dignity, decorum, and national unity,” Kangwa said.
He assured that the government would continue consultations with the family, mindful of the need to accord the late President the honour befitting his office and service to the nation.
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