Did Zambia's Ex-President Lungu Really Face Poisoning Claims? Lawyers Weigh In

The family of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has vehemently denied allegations that he was poisoned, amidst ongoing legal disputes regarding his burial. Lungu passed away in South Africa last June, and his body remains in a morgue while the family and the Zambian government battle over the location of his final resting place.

Last updated: 11 February 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

The situation surrounding Edgar Lungu's body has become increasingly complex. His family, represented by the Johannesburg law firm Mashele Attorneys, has confirmed their cooperation with South African police in relation to an investigation into poisoning allegations. However, they categorically reject these claims, describing them as "unfounded and unsupported by credible evidence." The family is also contesting the Zambian government's desire to repatriate Lungu's body for a state funeral, arguing that he preferred a private burial in South Africa.

Key takeaways

• The family of Edgar Lungu denies any allegations of poisoning.
• His body remains in a South African morgue amidst legal disputes over burial rights.
• The Zambian government seeks to repatriate Lungu's remains for a state funeral.

Timeline: how we got here

Edgar Lungu passed away on 19 June 2025, in Pretoria, South Africa, after reportedly suffering from an undisclosed illness. Following his death, discussions around his burial began, quickly escalating into legal battles. The Zambian government requested that Lungu's body be returned for a state funeral, which was supported by a South African court ruling in August 2025. In response, Lungu's family initiated legal proceedings to secure a private burial, citing his wishes not to have the current Zambian president, Hakainde Hichilema, in attendance.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest developments include the Lungu family's formal denial of the poisoning allegations as they cooperate with the ongoing investigation by South African police. They have also filed notices in court to prevent the repatriation of Lungu's body.

What was already established

It is known that Edgar Lungu served as Zambia's president from 2015 until 2021, and after losing the elections, he had a strained relationship with the current president. His family has consistently maintained that he preferred to be buried in South Africa.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the situation primarily affects Zambians and South Africans, it also highlights broader implications regarding the legal jurisdiction and cross-border issues related to burial rights. This could resonate with UK citizens who have similar concerns in international contexts.

Businesses and jobs

The ongoing legal disputes may impact businesses involved in funeral services and related sectors, especially those that provide international repatriation services. The legal complexities may also create opportunities for legal firms experienced in international law.

Policy and regulation

This case may prompt discussions regarding the regulation of burial rights and the jurisdiction of South African courts over such matters, possibly leading to new policies affecting how similar cases are handled in the future.

Numbers that matter

• 68: Age at which Edgar Lungu passed away.
• 5: Number of subpoenas issued to the Lungu family in relation to the investigation.
• 2: High Court orders affirming the funeral home's custody over the body.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Subpoena: A legal document ordering someone to appear in court or produce evidence.
• Repatriation: The process of returning a person or object to their country of origin.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, the Lungu family's legal team will continue to contest the Zambian government's attempts to repatriate the body. Additionally, the investigation by South African police will likely proceed, potentially leading to further developments.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Over the next few months, it is expected that the legal battles will intensify, with possible hearings in the South African courts regarding the custody and funeral arrangements for Lungu's body.

Signals to watch

• Updates from the South African police regarding their investigation.
• Any court rulings related to the repatriation of Lungu's body.
• Statements from the Zambian government regarding their position on the matter.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about the ongoing legal proceedings through reputable news sources.
• If involved in similar cases, consult legal experts in international law.

Don’t

• Assume the outcome of the legal disputes without following updates.
• Engage in speculation about the allegations without credible evidence.

Checklist

• Verify the legal process in similar cases.
• Understand the implications of international burial rights.
• Be aware of the cultural aspects surrounding burial practices.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation is fluid, with ongoing legal proceedings and investigations that could change the course of events. The allegations of poisoning remain unverified, and the family’s legal strategy may evolve as new information comes to light. Moreover, the political dynamics between Zambia and South Africa could influence the final decision regarding Lungu's burial.

Bottom line

The case of Edgar Lungu highlights the complexities of international burial rights and the intersection of personal wishes and state interests. As the legal battles unfold, it remains crucial for those with similar concerns to understand the legal frameworks at play and their implications for individuals and families.

FAQs

What happened to Edgar Lungu?

Edgar Lungu, the former president of Zambia, passed away on 19 June 2025, in South Africa, and his body remains in a morgue while legal disputes over his burial are ongoing.

Why does Lungu's family deny the poisoning allegations?

The Lungu family claims that the allegations of poisoning are unfounded and not supported by credible evidence, despite cooperating with police investigations.

What are the legal issues surrounding Lungu's burial?

The legal issues involve a dispute between Lungu's family and the Zambian government, with the family seeking a private burial in South Africa against the government's desire for a state funeral.