
19/06/2025
President Hakainde Hichilema Cancels the mourning period for ECL officially .
Lusaka, Zambia – June 19, 2025
President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed his gratitude to the Church and the Zambian people for their continued prayers and support during the recent period of national reflection.
Speaking during a national address, President Hichilema also extended heartfelt thanks to the government of South Africa for its patience and support following the passing of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu who died in south African on 5th June , 2025 while getting medical treatment.
The President acknowledged the reversal of the family's earlier decision to repatriate the body of the late ECL on 18th June , 2025, as Zambians were ready to receive the body of the former President,
He has described this decision as unfortunate.
Therefore, being promoted to offer an official apology to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic goodwill during such sensitive times.
President Hichilema announced that, with immediate effect, the official mourning period has been cancelled. He cited the need for the nation to return to normalcy, stating that Zambia can not afford to remain in a state of prolonged mourning.
Calling for calm, President Hichilema urged all citizens to remain peaceful and united, stressing that lawlessness would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to continued engagement with the Lungu family and reiterated that the doors of government remain open for dialogue.
“Our hearts remain with the Lungu family during this difficult time. May peace and unity guide us forward as a nation,” President Hichilema stated.
By Muselela F Sakala.