The funeral service and burial of former Republic of Zambia President Edgar Chagwa Lungu will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, his family confirmed on Friday.
This will be the first time a former head of state of another country is buried in South Africa.
In a media statement released by Lungu’s family on Friday, family spokesperson Makebi Zulu said the family wanted Lungu’s burial to take place in South Africa in accordance with the family’s wishes for a private ceremony.
The media statement was released using the official Facebook account of Lungu’s political party, the Patriotic Front (PF).
Family releases statement
Lungu died on June 5 at the age of 68 in a Pretoria, Gauteng, hospital. He had been receiving treatment at the facility for a number of weeks.
“On behalf of the Lungu family, we wish to announce that the funeral and burial of our beloved Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu will take place here in South Africa, in accordance with the family’s wishes for a private ceremony.
“This period has been deeply emotional for the family. And we are grateful for the overwhelming support and condolences extended to the family. Messages from across the continent and the globe. We would especially like to extend our sincere appreciation to the government of the Republic of South Africa for their respectful support and for honouring the family’s decision to hold a private funeral and burial here in South Africa,” said Zulu.
“Your non-interference and respect of the South African Constitution and rights of the family and the desire of the family is commendable. And it will give space to mourn and celebrate the life of our loved Edgar Chagwa Lungu in dignity and peace.
Honoured by SA support
“The visit of the Honourable Minister for International Relations, Mr Ronald Lamola, was heart-warming. He came to convey a message of condolences on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa,” said Zulu.
“The Lungu family continues to seek peace and unity amongst fellow… Zambians during this time. And thanks to all friends, supporters, and members of the public. We thank them for their understanding, compassion and willingness to mourn the former head of state. As it has been resolved by the family, he will be buried here in Johannesburg, South Africa. This will be at a private funeral,” said Zulu.
Zulu said further details regarding the funeral arrangements and burial will be shared in due course. The details will be shared to the Zambian and South African public.
