Lusaka, 7th June 2025 – The Government of the Republic of Zambia has declared a seven-day period of national mourning following the passing of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, the Sixth President of the Republic, who died in South Africa on Thursday, 5th June 2025.
In an official press statement released by the Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick K. Kangwa, the government announced that President Hakainde Hichilema has accorded a State Funeral to the late leader. “President Hakainde Hichilema has accorded a State Funeral to His Excellency Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, the Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia,” the statement read.
The national mourning period will begin on Sunday, 8th June and continue until Saturday, 14th June 2025, in line with official protocols for former Republican Presidents. “This is in honour of the Late Former President in recognition of his immense contribution to the Nation, as Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia,” the statement noted.
The late President’s body is expected to arrive in Zambia on Wednesday, 11th June 2025, and a funeral gathering will be held at Belvedere Lodge, along Leopards Hill Road in Kabulonga, Lusaka.
Members of the public have been urged to show respect during the mourning period by suspending leisure and entertainment activities. “Members of the public are requested to observe the Seven (07) days of National Mourning from 06:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs by postponing or cancelling all entertainment activities while flags shall fly at half-mast,” stated Mr. Kangwa.
The Cabinet Office assured the nation that further details regarding funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
President Edgar Lungu served as Zambia’s sixth president and is remembered for his contributions to governance and national development.
