Pretoria, South Africa – 22 April 2026
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has confirmed that the High Court in Pretoria has formally transferred the mortal remains of the Sixth Republican President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, to the Zambian Government, marking a significant legal and procedural step toward the late former Head of State’s repatriation and burial.
According to a press statement issued on Wednesday, 22 April 2026, the decision follows the inability of the former President’s family to proceed with their case before the South African Supreme Court of Appeal. As a result, the remains have since been moved from Two Mountains Burial Services (PTY) Limited to a facility under the management of the South African Government.
The Pretoria High Court had previously ruled on 8 August 2025 that the body of the former President be released to the Zambian Government to enable the commencement of formal arrangements for repatriation and burial in Zambia. The latest ruling effectively enforces that directive, paving the way for coordinated state-led processes between the two governments and the family.
The Zambian Government has stated that, in line with the court’s directive, it will now engage the family of the late President to conclude discussions on burial arrangements. The nation is expected to be updated on the agreed arrangements once consultations are finalised.
Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha SC, who issued the statement on behalf of the Government, emphasized that further details will be communicated in due course as preparations progress.
The development marks a key moment in the ongoing legal and diplomatic process surrounding the final resting place of the former Head of State, with both legal authorities and government institutions now aligned on the next steps toward repatriation.
