Lungu Burial Dispute Nears Conclusion

On Tuesday, the Gauteng Division of the High Court heard the final submissions in the ongoing dispute over the burial of Zambia’s sixth President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

The court, presided over by Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba, began by dismissing the application of Vincent Kafula, a Zambian citizen based in Cape Town, to intervene in the case between the Zambian government and the family of the late former president.

Kafula had sought to prevent what he described as the “persecution, harassment, and unjust legal proceedings” against Lungu’s family. However, his application was deemed to insert politically charged demands into a legal dispute over burial rights.

Judge Sulet Potteril, ruling on the matter, stated “We cannot find, because of the orders he is seeking, that he does have a legal right or interest in what order will give and that his legal rights will be affected. Therefore, the application for intervention is dismissed, with no order as to cost.”

Following the dismissal, the legal representatives of the Zambian government reaffirmed their commitment to securing a dignified burial for the former President.  The lawyers argued that “it was never the late president’s wish to be buried in South Africa” and that the respondents are in effect going “against the wishes of the deceased.”

In addition, the lawyers for the government maintained that prior meetings had been held and a compromise reached regarding President Hichilema's attendance to the funeral.

The government is asking for the court to order the release of Lungu’s body for immediate repatriation.

A final judgement is expected by August 8, 2025.