The relatives of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu have rejected allegations that he was poisoned, as South African authorities continue inquiries that have delayed his burial for months.
Ongoing Investigation
Lungu, who governed Zambia from 2015 until 2021, died in June 2025 at the age of 68 while receiving treatment in Pretoria, South Africa. His remains remain in a morgue under strict security amid a complex dispute involving his family, the Zambian government, and investigators.
Lawyers representing the family said they have responded to multiple subpoenas issued by the South African Police Service, which is examining claims of possible poisoning. In correspondence earlier this month, the family’s legal team insisted there is no credible basis for the allegations and described them as unsupported.
The attorneys, Mashele Attorneys, emphasized that the family is cooperating with investigators but raised concerns over police requests involving the funeral provider currently responsible for the body. They noted that existing High Court orders require the remains to stay under the care of the funeral service until legal proceedings are resolved.
Dispute Over Burial
Since his death, disagreement over Lungu’s final resting place has escalated into a legal battle. The Zambian government has sought to repatriate his remains and organize a state funeral with official honours. However, his family has opposed the plan, arguing that Lungu had expressed a preference for a private burial in South Africa and did not want his political rival present at his funeral.
In August 2025, a South African court ruled that his body should be returned to Zambia, siding with the government. But his widow has continued to challenge the decision, filing an appeal with the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein.
Sensitive Proceedings
Police officials have declined to provide details about the investigation, describing the matter as highly sensitive. Meanwhile, the prolonged legal and investigative processes have left uncertainty over when and where the former president will finally be laid to rest.
Conclusion
The case of Edgar Lungu highlights the intersection of politics, law, and family wishes in the aftermath of a leader’s death. As investigations and appeals continue, the fate of his burial remains unresolved, underscoring the complexity of balancing state interests with personal and family rights.
