Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, stated that the South African government hopes to see former Zambian President Edgar Lungu buried in Zambia.
He elaborated on the situation, noting that the South African government has acknowledged the court’s decision regarding President Lungu’s remains. He continues to encourage dialogue between the Zambian government and Lungu’s family to find an amicable solution for the funeral procession. Lamola emphasized that while they respect the court process, they have also impressed upon both parties the importance of engaging with each other to determine how the procession should be conducted.
The South African government’s message has been consistent: the burial should take place in Zambia, the late President’s home country. Lamola believes the government and the family can find common ground on managing the funeral procession. He also mentioned that even before the court rulings, there has been an ongoing call for an out-of-court settlement, which is considered the best and most lasting solution.
Lamola stressed the need for persistent engagement, even while legal proceedings are underway, and pledged South Africa’s continued support for efforts to achieve a mutually agreed-upon solution. He stated that the South African government will “never get tired” of encouraging a resolution until a solution is found between the two parties.
Key Points:
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The South African government has noted the court outcome concerning the remains of the late President Lungu and continues to encourage dialogue between both the Zambian government and Lungu’s family to reach an amicable solution on the funeral procession.
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Lamola emphasized that the South African government respects the court process and allows it to take its course, but alongside that, they have impressed upon both parties the importance of finding each other through engagement on how the procession should be conducted.
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The government’s message has consistently been that the burial should take place in Zambia, the late President’s home, and they believe the government and family can find common ground on managing the funeral procession.
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Even before the court rulings, there has been an ongoing call for an out-of-court settlement between the Zambian government and the family, considered the best and most lasting solution.
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Despite apparent difficulties in reaching an agreement so far, the South African government will persistently encourage both sides not to tire in their efforts to engage and compromise on the burial arrangements.
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Lamola stressed the need for ongoing engagement even while legal proceedings are underway, underscoring that regardless of court decisions, the Zambian government and the Lungu family must continue discussions on the burial processes.
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The space and possibility for engagement remain open, and South Africa pledges to continue supporting efforts to achieve a mutually agreed solution on how to bury the former president in Zambia.
