Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 18th June, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.

The family of the late former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has suspended plans to receive his remains at the family residence, following what they describe as repeated violations of funeral arrangements initially agreed upon with the Zambian government.
Speaking on behalf of the family, lawyer and spokesperson Makebi Zulu expressed deep concern over the government’s unilateral decisions that, according to the family, have undermined collaborative planning for the late leader’s state funeral.
Among the key grievances cited is the roadworks along the funeral route from Crossroads to Chifwema. The family claims the move was made without prior consultation, disrupting the previously agreed procession path.
Mr. Zulu further highlighted a statement issued by the Secretary to the Cabinet on June 17, which appeared to limit public participation in the reception of the former President’s body. He stated that the family was neither consulted nor granted the opportunity to participate in deciding who would attend such a solemn occasion.
Another point of contention arose when an official programme surfaced indicating that President Lungu’s remains would be transported directly from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport to a church service and then to the Mulungushi International Conference Centre. The family insists that they were not informed or involved in shaping that programme.
“Despite assurances and some acknowledgments of errors by the Cabinet Office, the trend of releasing unauthorized funeral programmes has continued,” said Zulu.
As a result, the family has taken the difficult step of halting the return of the late President’s remains for now, citing a breach of trust.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce that the late President Edgar Lungu’s body will not be returned to the family home today, due to these continued inconsistencies,” Zulu said.
Nevertheless, the family remains hopeful that a resolution will eventually be reached that upholds both the dignity of the state and the values held dear by the Lungu family.

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The Agency