Pretoria Court Adjourns Lungu Burial Appeal to August 18

Описание: By Masauso Mkwayaya

The Pretoria High Court in South Africa has adjourned to Monday, August 18, 2025, the hearing of the application for leave to appeal the judgment that ordered the repatriation of the body of former President Edgar Lungu.

This matter involves the Zambian government, which is seeking a State Funeral for the former President in Zambia, and the Lungu family, who prefer a private burial.

The adjournment follows a joint request from lawyers representing both parties: Tembeka Ngcukaitobi of Duma Nokwe Chambers, representing the Lungu family, and Ben Stoop of Brooklyn Advocates, representing the government.

Speaking on behalf of both parties, Mr. Ngcukaitobi stated that the Zambian government and the Lungu family have resumed engagements to discuss the best way forward regarding the leave to appeal application. He said both sides agreed they needed more time to explore solutions and reach common ground.

Granting the adjournment, Deputy Judge President Aubrey Ledwaba said the judges had a side discussion with lawyers from both sides, during which they were briefed on the ongoing engagements. Judge Ledwaba expressed optimism that the matter could soon be resolved.

Seated with Judges Mudau and Potterill, Judge Ledwaba urged both parties to use the adjournment to work toward consensus.

Former First Lady Esther Lungu, the former President’s daughter Tasila, and other family members were absent from the session. Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha also did not attend.

On August 8, 2025, the Pretoria High Court ordered that the body of Mr. Lungu be repatriated to Zambia for burial at Embassy Park in Lusaka. Delivering the judgment, Judge Ledwaba also directed that, in accordance with Zambian law, the former President should be accorded a State Funeral.
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