PF urges speedy burial of Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu

By Chali Mulenga in Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia 

A Patriotic Front (PF) member in Livingstone has called on Government to urgently resolve the burial impasse surrounding former leader Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, saying the continued delay is causing distress to the bereaved family and the nation.

Chilufya Mwewa said yesterday that the family of Dr Lungu has endured prolonged suffering since the former leader died on June 5, 2025, with his remains still lying in the mortuary nearly nine months later.

Mr. Mwewa expressed sympathy with the bereaved family and the PF membership across the country, urging Zambians to respect the wishes of the late leader’s relatives, particularly Dr Lungu.

“The family is still undergoing a lot. We must respect the wishes of Dr Lungu and the entire family,” Mwewa said.

Mwewa said the delay in burial has been caused by a legal dispute between Government and the family over the handling of the remains, noting that the matter has remained unresolved for months.

Mwewa alleged that the late Dr Lungu faced difficulties before his death and that his family continues to face challenges even after his passing.

“We are going into nine months before we have put to rest Dr Lungu. The body is still in the mortuary because of the court process. Let us resolve this issue because burial is long overdue,” Mwewa said.

Mwewa appealed for leadership and compassion in handling the matter, stating that prolonged disputes over the remains of a former national leader risk bringing embarrassment to Zambia.

Mr. Mwewa called on Zambians to speak out in support of the late leader’s dignity and to encourage a peaceful resolution to the impasse.

Mwewa also criticised the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), accusing it of failing to resolve the matter and provide closure to the family.

The burial of Dr. Lungu has remained unresolved since his death last year, with court proceedings between Government and the family continuing.