AG says court action over Lungu’s burial is not about national unity not winning

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha has made it clear that the Zambian government’s legal action to stop the burial of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu in South Africa is not about winning a political fight, but about protecting national interests, following legal procedures, and promoting unity.

In an appearance on ZNBC this morning, Mr. Kabesha explained that the State had to go to court after attempts to reach an agreement with the late president’s family did not succeed. He stressed that this legal action is based on the Benefits of Former Presidents Act, Chapter 15 of the Laws of Zambia, which requires the government to take full responsibility for the funeral and burial of a former Head of State.

“This is not about confrontation,” he stated. “We are just following the law and looking for a solution that shows national unity and respect for the presidency.”

The Attorney General also mentioned that he is open to suggesting that the Cabinet form a mediation team to talk again with the family of the late president, hoping that an agreement can still be reached before the end of June.

“Speaking for myself, the best thing for this nation is that by tomorrow the parties agree… bring the body here,” he said, emphasizing that talking is the best way to move forward.

In a different interview on Hot FM, Mr. Kabesha repeated that the State is not trying to achieve a personal or political win. Instead, he said, the goal is to uphold the law and prevent creating a situation that could lead to public disorder or confusion regarding state funerals.

“It is not ‘we must win at all costs,’ no, please, that is not the government’s position. The government’s position is to complete all the processes,” he said.

At the moment, the South African High Court in Pretoria has put a hold on President Lungu’s burial until the case is resolved. The court has ordered Zambia’s Attorney General to present formal arguments by July 3, 2025, with the family allowed to…