Zambia opposition candidate Brian Mundubile pledges burial of former President Edgar Lungu if elected

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu died on 5 June 2025 in Pretoria, South Africa. His body has remained in a South African mortuary amid a dispute between his family, which seeks a private burial, and the Zambian government, which demanded a state funeral with full military honours. The disagreement was highlighted by a Pretoria High Court ruling that the family’s wishes prevail.

During the 2026 general‑election campaign, Tonse Alliance presidential candidate Brian Mundubile, together with running mate Makebi Zulu, announced that a Tonse government would ensure Lungu is buried in Zambia with dignity. Mundubile made the pledge at rallies in Muchinga Province, linking the burial issue to broader campaign promises such as supporting small‑scale miners, completing key road projects and defending civil liberties. He urged voters to back the alliance in the August 13 poll, saying the burial commitment would be fulfilled if they win.