19/06/2025
HH Ends National Mourning for Late President Lungu, Urges Return to Normalcy
Lusaka, 19 June 2025 — President Hakainde Hichilema has officially brought to a close the national mourning period for Zambia’s late 6th Republican President, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, citing the need for the country to return to normalcy after efforts to accord the former Head of State a dignified state funeral were derailed by the family’s sudden reversal of earlier agreements.
In a nationally televised address, President Hichilema described the past 14 days since Mr. Lungu’s death as a time of reflection, mourning, healing, and a test of Zambia's unity and resolve. He extended gratitude to the church, traditional leaders, citizens, and key dignitaries—among them former Vice President Enock Kavindele and Chief Mumbi—for their support during the period.
President Hichilema also expressed deep appreciation to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and the people of South Africa for their support and readiness to facilitate the repatriation of Mr. Lungu’s remains, which was ultimately aborted due to a last-minute change by the Lungu family.
“We were prepared to receive the remains of our former President yesterday, but were surprised by the family’s reversal of the agreed course of action,” President Hichilema stated. He noted that military honours were prepared by the South African Defence Force “in vain,” adding, “For this unfortunate situation, we extend our sincere apologies to President Ramaphosa, the Government, and the people of South Africa.”
The President confirmed that as of the close of Thursday, 19 June 2025, the extended national mourning period has officially ended. “Our country cannot afford a state of indefinite mourning,” he said, noting that all avenues for dialogue had been exhausted.
“Mr. Lungu was not only an ordinary citizen but our 6th Republican President. While we recognise that he belongs to a family, he also belongs to the nation of Zambia,” he emphasized, asserting that Mr. Lungu’s burial should rightfully take place on Zambian soil with full national honours.
President Hichilema assured the public that government doors remain open for further engagement with the Lungu family but cautioned against any disorder or lawlessness. “Let us remain united as a nation and maintain the peace we are known for,” he urged.
In closing, the Head of State paid tribute to Mr. Lungu, saying, “May the soul of our departed former republican president, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, rest in eternal peace.”
The address marks a critical moment in Zambia’s handling of a former leader’s passing, highlighting the delicate balance between national obligation and familial rights, amid calls for continued peace and unity.
