President Hakainde Hichilema has shown a rare blend of compassion and leadership by reaching an amicable understanding with the family of the late Sixth Republican President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, on the repatriation and funeral arrangements following his death in South Africa on June 5th, 2025.
The negotiations between the State and the Lungu family, though complex, were handled with sensitivity and respect, culminating in a plan that balances national protocol with the family’s personal wishes. Despite some requests falling outside established state procedures, President Hichilema’s administration chose to accommodate the majority of them in the interest of national unity.
One of the most symbolic decisions was the extension of the national mourning period by nine days up to June 23rd, the date of burial. The President’s gesture has been interpreted by many as a call for togetherness during a deeply emotional period for the country.
“This isn’t a moment for division,” said a senior government official involved in the talks. “The President instructed us to engage the family with understanding and ensure they felt heard throughout the process.”
Amid a swirl of conflicting reports online, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa clarified that the Hichilema-led government had, in fact, endorsed and supported Lungu’s travel to South Africa for medical attention. He confirmed that communication had been made with Professor Njovu, Lungu’s personal physician, to offer the necessary assistance.
“There is a clear record showing the State’s commitment to his care,” Kangwa stated during a joint briefing. “It is simply untrue that we blocked or delayed anything.”
That such reassurances came from the civil service and not party officials has been seen as a reflection of President Hichilema’s measured handling of the matter—choosing to lead with actions rather than political rhetoric, and ensuring the moment remained dignified and solemn.
The President’s tone throughout this period has been notably composed. Observers have described it as a display of restraint and statesmanship from a leader once imprisoned by the very man he now mourns.
“He could have insisted on formality, but instead, he reached for healing,” noted political analyst Dr. Joseph Zulu. “That takes more than leadership—it takes character.”
After careful deliberations, a consensus funeral programme was announced:
-
The late President’s body will be flown in privately on June 18th, with full military honours.
-
Public viewing will take place from June 19th to 21st at Mulungushi International Conference Center.
-
A State Funeral is scheduled for June 22nd, with dignitaries from around the region expected to attend.
-
The final farewell will be held on June 23rd, featuring a valedictory church service and ceremonial burial.
In keeping with the family’s wishes, the body will be taken to Lungu’s Chifwema residence each evening during the public mourning period—another sign of the State’s willingness to meet the family halfway.
President Hichilema’s approach has been widely praised by citizens and commentators alike, with many noting how he set aside past grievances to honour the office and memory of his former rival.
Flags remain at half-mast at both State House and the President’s personal home, Community House—a visual reminder of the national grief being shared across political lines.
By offering not only logistical support but emotional solidarity, President Hichilema has helped steer the nation through a sensitive chapter with calm and purpose.
June 23rd will mark not only the end of the mourning period, but the beginning of a renewed national spiritanchored in peace, reconciliation, and the enduring motto: One Zambia, One Nation.
