(LAZ) is urging President Hakainde Hichilema to lead the funeral of the late Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu

In a statement today, LAZ expressed its deep sadness over the loss of the former President, who was also a respected member of the legal community.

The Association highlighted that Dr. Lungu’s role as President qualifies him for a state-led funeral.

LAZ pointed out that there is no clear law governing state funerals, noting that a former President is not just an ordinary citizen and deserves a state funeral that follows national protocols.

They referenced a 2021 High Court ruling regarding Kaweche Kaunda, which confirmed that former presidents should receive public funerals with full state honors.

While recognizing the family’s important role, LAZ encouraged the Lungu family to allow legal and constitutional processes to take place, including letting President Hichilema oversee the funeral.

This aligns with the constitutional provision that grants the sitting President the authority to act on behalf of all citizens.

LAZ also called on the Government to create a clear legal framework for state funerals in Zambia, emphasizing the need for guidelines during such significant national events.

This statement reflects LAZ’s commitment to promoting justice and the rule of law, as outlined in Section 4 of the Law Association of Zambia Act.