Pretoria High Court Transfers Remains of Former President Edgar Lungu to Zambian Government

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha has confirmed that the High Court in Pretoria has formally transferred the mortal remains of the Sixth President, Edgar Lungu, to the Zambian Government.

Mr Kabesha said the transfer took place yesterday, 22 April 2026, following the former President's family's inability to proceed with their case before the South African Supreme Court of Appeal.

He confirmed that the mortal remains have since been relocated from Two Mountains Burial Services Limited to a facility managed by the South African Government, pending the next steps in the repatriation process.

The development follows the Pretoria High Court's ruling of 8 August 2025, in which the court directed that the body be released to the Zambian Government to facilitate preparations for repatriation and burial in Zambia.

Mr Kabesha said that, in line with the court's directive, the Government will now engage with the former President's family to finalise burial arrangements in a dignified and orderly manner.

He emphasised that the Zambian Government remains committed to ensuring that the late former Head of State is accorded the respect and honour befitting his office, and that the process will be handled with sensitivity to the family and to the nation.

The Attorney General said the nation will be informed of the agreed-upon details in due course, and urged Zambians to remain calm and united as the final arrangements are concluded.