As Zambia marks two solemn weeks since the passing of its sixth Republican President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, President Hakainde Hichilema has addressed the nation in a heartfelt call for unity, peace, and closure. Speaking from State House, President Hichilema reflected on what he described as a “period of mourning, healing, and a test of our resolve as a peace-loving and law-abiding nation.”

The emotional address follows days of uncertainty and diplomatic strain after a last-minute reversal by the Lungu family halted the repatriation of the late president’s body from South Africa, despite prior agreement on funeral arrangements.

“By last Sunday, the 15th of June, a mutual understanding was achieved,” said President Hichilema, referring to a joint press briefing in South Africa where government officials and the Lungu family announced plans for a dignified burial in Zambia on June 23. The government, in response, extended the national mourning period by nine days and initiated preparations for a full state funeral, including military honours and ceremonial rites.

However, on June 18, the expected arrival of the late president’s remains did not materialize. President Hichilema expressed regret over the incident, saying the reversal “surprised the nation” and “rendered the efforts of the South African Defence Force and our diplomatic channels in vain.”

“For this unfortunate situation, we extend our sincere apologies to President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Government, and the people of South Africa,” he said.

While affirming the state’s respect for the Lungu family’s wishes, President Hichilema firmly underscored that the former head of state “belongs to the nation of Zambia,” and should, by virtue of his office, be buried on Zambian soil with full honours. “Our country cannot afford a state of indefinite mourning,” the president declared, officially announcing the end of the mourning period as of June 19, 2025.

The president’s address struck a careful balance between respect for the Lungu family and a broader call for national dignity and stability. “We urge our citizens to maintain calm and orderliness. No amount of lawlessness will be tolerated,” he stated, alluding to growing political and social tensions.

Hichilema also thanked the church, traditional leaders, diplomats, and the general public for their patience and moral guidance during what has become a highly sensitive national moment. He expressed hope for further dialogue with the Lungu family while reiterating the state’s commitment to honoring the late president appropriately.

Edgar Lungu served as Zambia’s sixth president from 2015 to 2021, following the death of President Michael Sata. His tenure was marked by economic turbulence, allegations of authoritarianism, and increasing political polarization—factors that have continued to shape the national conversation even in his death.

As Zambia attempts to move forward, President Hichilema’s call for unity, dialogue, and peace may serve as a reminder of the values that have long defined the nation’s democratic identity. “Let us remain united,” he said, “and maintain the peace we are known for.”

The question that now lingers is whether the country, and the family of its late president, can find common ground in the days to come—so that a chapter so significant in Zambia’s democratic journey can be closed with the dignity it deserves.