Former Malawi President Bakili Muluzi, Pulls Out of Lungu Mediation

Former Malawi President Bakili Muluzi, Pulls Out of Lungu Mediation

Former President of the Republic of Malawi, Dr. Bakili Muluzi, has formally announced his withdrawal from the mediation process concerning the burial arrangements of Zambia’s Sixth President, His Excellency Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu. The decision, made public through a detailed statement of gratitude and solidarity, comes five months after the passing of the late Zambian leader on 5th June 2025.

Dr. Muluzi explained that while notable progress had been achieved in addressing key issues and fostering understanding among stakeholders, the complexity of certain matters prevented the attainment of a final, unified resolution. Consequently, he deemed it necessary to formally hand back responsibility for the process to the family of the late President, the Government of the Republic of Zambia, and the people of Zambia.

“It has now become necessary to withdraw from the mediation process and formally return the matter to the family, the Zambian people, the Zambian Government, and other processes,” Dr. Muluzi stated. “This will allow the final arrangements for the burial of the departed Former President in a manner they will consider fitting and respectful, and get this matter to closure.”

The former Malawian leader underscored that his involvement in the mediation was guided not by political or partisan considerations, but by a deep sense of Pan-African fraternity, respect for the Office of the Presidency, and the conviction that Africa’s strength lies in unity during times of adversity.

Over the past five months, Dr. Muluzi played a facilitative role in efforts to achieve a peaceful and dignified conclusion to the matter surrounding the late President’s burial. He expressed appreciation for the patience and dignity shown by the Zambian people during a period marked by national sorrow, commending them for maintaining peace and unity despite the emotional challenges following the loss of their former Head of State.

Dr. Muluzi extended his gratitude to His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema for his openness and cooperation throughout the process. He highlighted that President Hichilema’s readiness to engage in dialogue and consider counsel from mediators made it possible to pursue avenues of understanding and peaceful resolution.

He also expressed deep appreciation to the Government of the Republic of South Africa and President Cyril Ramaphosa, along with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), for their steady diplomatic support throughout the mediation period. He further acknowledged the solidarity of leaders in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), who demonstrated commitment to regional cooperation and fraternity in addressing the matter.

While several aspects of the family’s wishes were reflected in the mediation outcomes, he explained that attempts to achieve direct dialogue among all parties did not fully succeed, leaving some issues unresolved. He expressed respect for the family’s grief and their right to determine how to honour their loved one, while also recognizing the responsibility of the State toward its former leaders.

Dr. Muluzi noted that the mediation process benefited from the tireless efforts of several religious leaders, including His Grace Bishop Professor Joshua H.K. Banda, President of the Africa Christian Transformation Forum and Presiding Bishop of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God Zambia, as well as His Grace Archbishop Dr. Alick Banda of the Lusaka Archdiocese. Both clergymen were formally appointed co-mediators on 9th September 2025, a development that strengthened the legitimacy and moral authority of the process.

“Archbishop Banda and Bishop Banda provided a pastoral and nationally trusted framework within which dialogue could be advanced,” Dr. Muluzi stated. “Their leadership gave us renewed confidence that resolution was even more attainable.”

He also paid tribute to the compassionate involvement of Her Excellency Mrs. Graça Machel, who personally reached out to the Former First Lady, Mrs. Esther Lungu, to offer reassurance and emotional support during a challenging period. Additionally, he acknowledged the contribution of Hon. Thandi Modise, who, through her appointment by the South African Government, maintained constructive engagement between the South African Presidency and DIRCO.

Dr. Muluzi emphasized that throughout the mediation process, communication was maintained with the late President’s family through their spokesperson, Counsel Makebi Zulu, in coordination with representatives of the Government of Zambia. The goal, he said, was to promote mutual understanding, restore calm, and foster dialogue in a spirit of respect and African cultural values.

While several aspects of the family’s wishes were reflected in the mediation outcomes, he explained that attempts to achieve direct dialogue among all parties did not fully succeed, leaving some issues unresolved. He expressed respect for the family’s grief and their right to determine how to honour their loved one, while also recognizing the responsibility of the State toward its former leaders.

“As mediators, we sincerely hoped that space would emerge for renewed, calm, and principled communication so that closure could be reached in a dignified and unifying manner,” he reflected. “The work undertaken over these months was guided by goodwill and a desire to strengthen unity among the people of Zambia.”

Dr. Muluzi concluded his statement with words of solace and hope, expressing confidence that the collective efforts made thus far have contributed meaningfully toward creating space for a final resolution. He reaffirmed his enduring respect for the people of Zambia and their leaders, and offered prayers for continued peace and unity.

“May the soul of His Excellency Edgar Chagwa Lungu rest in eternal peace,” Dr. Muluzi said. “May the people of Zambia be strengthened with wisdom, unity, and grace.”

The formal withdrawal of Dr. Bakili Muluzi from the mediation process marks the end of an intensive five-month effort to navigate one of Zambia’s most delicate posthumous national matters, as the country continues to seek closure over the burial of its late Sixth President.