The Zambian government has declared a 7-day national mourning period in honor of former President Edgar Lungu, who passed away on Thursday in South Africa at the age of 68.
According to the Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, President Hakainde Hichilema has accorded a state funeral to Lungu, who ruled Zambia from 2015 to 2021.
During the mourning period, all flags will fly at half-mast from June 8 to 14, and entertainment events will be suspended.
Lungu’s body is expected to arrive in Zambia next Wednesday and will be taken to Belvedere Lodge in the capital, Lusaka, designated as the official place of mourning.
Lungu had been receiving specialized medical treatment in a clinic in Pretoria, South Africa, for a condition caused by narrowing of the esophagus.
His death has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from across the country and beyond.
The state funeral will be a fitting tribute to Lungu’s service to the nation, and the mourning period will provide an opportunity for Zambians to reflect on his legacy and contributions to the country’s development.
As the nation comes together to pay its respects, the government has urged citizens to observe the mourning period with dignity and respect.
