THE Lungu family says it will move at lightning speed to bring back former president Edgar Lungu’s remains if only President Hakainde Hichilema handed over burial representation to another official.
Family spokesperson and Lusaka lawyer Makebi Zulu said the stand-off over the former president’s burial is simple to end and can be solved instantly if the Head of State delegates authority.
“If today the President says, ‘I will not attend but I’ll send the Vice-President,’ we will start off tomorrow,” Zulu said.
“It is that simple. We will give him his full honours and put this painful matter to rest.”
Speaking passionately on Emmanuel Mwamba’s EMV TV interview last evening, Zulu said he is ready to wear prison clothes if fighting for the Lungu’s dignified burial is a crime.
He further dismissed allegations that the family was hiding or running away from the law, insisting they had nothing to fear and nothing to hide.
“There is no offence we have committed,” he said.
“And even if there was, we are not afraid to face the law. Zambia is our home, we are coming back home. If fighting for a decent burial for President Lungu means going to prison, then I will gladly go.”
The outspoken lawyer said the family’s plea is not political but a cry for respect for a widow, a family in mourning and for the final wishes of a man who once led the nation.
It’s been four months down the line since Lungu’s death, his remains still lie unburied in South Africa, with his family insisting they want closure and a dignified farewell that will align with the family’s wishes.
By George Musonda
Kalemba October 25, 2025
