Esther Lungu Seeks Closure As Impasse Continues

Family, church leaders and political figures renew calls for resolution as burial impasse enters second year

LUSAKA — Zambia marked one year since the death of sixth Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu on Thursday, with family members, church leaders and political figures renewing appeals for a resolution to the burial impasse that has remained unresolved since his passing.

Memorial activities held across the country on June 5 brought together relatives, supporters, religious leaders and political figures to remember the former Head of State’s life and years in public office. The commemorations also revived discussion surrounding the continued absence of burial arrangements, a matter that remains unresolved twelve months after his death.

Former First Lady Esther Lungu appealed for closure, describing the prolonged uncertainty as a difficult burden for the family. She said relatives continue to wait for an outcome that would allow them to fulfil what they believe were the wishes of the former president and finally conclude a period of mourning that has extended far beyond expectations.

Her remarks formed one of the central messages of the anniversary commemorations, where family members reflected on the personal impact of the dispute and the emotional toll associated with the delay.

The church also used the occasion to call for reconciliation and national unity. Lusaka Archbishop Dr Alick Banda paid tribute to the former president’s years of service and his connection with ordinary citizens, while urging Zambians to embrace values of humility, mutual respect and compassion.

The Archbishop’s message centred on the importance of preserving national cohesion during moments of difficulty and ensuring that differences are addressed with dignity. Similar themes emerged throughout memorial services and remembrance gatherings held in honour of the former president.

Political figures from different parties joined calls for a resolution. Socialist Party president Dr Fred M’membe questioned why the matter remained unresolved a year after Lungu’s death and appealed for an outcome that respects both the dignity of the late former president and the wishes of his family.

Former Chilubi lawmaker Mulenga Fube also called for a settlement, saying efforts should focus on bringing closure to the family and allowing the nation to move forward.

The prolonged dispute has kept Lungu’s legacy in the national spotlight long after his death. Throughout the past year, supporters have continued to organise remembrance activities while political leaders, church organisations and civil society groups have repeatedly commented on the matter.

For many citizens, discussion surrounding the burial has evolved beyond funeral arrangements alone and now touches on broader questions concerning national unity, reconciliation and the treatment of former leaders after leaving public office.

The anniversary comes at a time when political activity is increasing ahead of the August 13 general election. Campaigns are intensifying across the country, with parties competing for support and public attention. Against that backdrop, Lungu’s name and legacy have remained part of the national conversation as the burial issue continues unresolved.

Over the past twelve months, differing positions have emerged regarding aspects of the dispute. Despite those differences, calls for a settlement have continued to come from across political, religious and civic circles.

The first anniversary commemorations demonstrated that public interest in the matter remains significant. Memorial gatherings focused on remembrance and reflection, but they also highlighted the continuing expectation among many Zambians that a resolution should be found.

For supporters of the former president, the anniversary provided an opportunity to honour a leader they believe served the country with distinction. For family members, it marked another year without the closure they have consistently sought since his death.

No announcement regarding a final agreement emerged from the anniversary events, leaving the matter unresolved as it enters a second year. Family members continue to await progress, supporters remain hopeful for a settlement and public attention remains fixed on developments surrounding the issue.

The anniversary commemorations served both as a remembrance of Edgar Lungu’s life and as a reminder that one of Zambia’s most sensitive unresolved national matters remains without a conclusion.

Editors Note: “One year after the death of former President Edgar Lungu, appeals for closure continue from family members, religious leaders and political figures as the burial impasse enters a second year without resolution.”