PRETORIA- A South African court has postponed the burial of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu, halting a private ceremony planned by his family in South Africa, just as it was set to begin. The decision follows a legal challenge by the Zambian government, which sought to stop the burial in Pretoria and repatriate Lungu’s body for a state funeral in Zambia.

The President, who died on 5 June 2025 in a South African hospital at age 68, had expressed a wish for a private funeral, with his family stating he did not want his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema, to attend. This stems from a long-standing feud between the two leaders. Despite initial agreement for a state funeral, disputes over arrangements led Lungu’s family to opt for a private burial in South Africa.

The Zambian government argues that, as a former president, Lungu “belongs to the nation” and should be buried in Zambia. Citing the case of Zambia’s founding President Kenneth Kaunda, whose family’s burial wishes were overruled in 2021, the government insists public interest should take precedence.

The Pretoria High Court, following an “agreement between the parties,” ruled that no funeral will proceed until at least August 2025. Zambian Attorney General Mulilo D Kabesha must submit an amended notice of motion by 4 July, with Lungu’s family given until 11 July to respond. The matter is set for a special hearing on 4 August, when costs will also be determined.