The Zambian government has announced plans to transfer the remains of former President Edgar Lungu to a new mortuary in Pretoria this Monday, following a request from the family to be present during the process.
Family Requests Delayed Transfer
According to authorities, the move was initially expected to happen immediately after the court ruling. However, the Lungu family, through their legal representatives, requested that the transfer be postponed to allow them to witness the relocation of the body.
Court Orders Government to Cover Costs
The development follows a ruling by the Pretoria High Court directing the Zambian government to fund the relocation and storage of the remains at AVBOB Mortuary Pretoria East. The body will remain there pending the final outcome of a case before the Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa.
Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha confirmed the arrangement in an official statement, noting that both parties had agreed to a consent order setting aside the earlier urgent ruling issued on April 22, 2026.
Consent Order Sets New Terms
“The urgent ex parte order granted on 22 April 2026… has been reviewed and is hereby set aside,” Kabesha said, outlining the revised legal position agreed upon by both the government and the Lungu family.
Under the new agreement:
- The remains will be moved from B3 Undertakers to AVBOB Pretoria East.
- The Zambian government will cover all associated mortuary costs.
- The family will retain access to the body throughout the legal process.
Government Calls for Amicable Resolution
Kabesha emphasized that the government remains open to continued dialogue with the Lungu family, with the goal of reaching a peaceful and respectful resolution.
“The government welcomes this development,” he said, adding that the situation was never intended to escalate into a dispute over custody of the remains.
Focus on Dignified Burial
Authorities reiterated their commitment to ensuring that the late former head of state is accorded a dignified burial once the legal matters are fully resolved.
