THE ongoing controversy surrounding the burial of former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has touched a nerve in both Zambia and South Africa.
Amid the tension and public debate, South Africa’s handling of the situation deserves appreciation – not merely for its diplomatic finesse but, more importantly, for its principled stance rooted in legal obligations, respect for institutional independence and empathy for the bereaved.
The visit by South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, to Zambia was not just symbolic – it was a concrete demonstration of Pretoria’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and mutual respect between sovereign nations.
Far from being a snub to the Zambian government, as some have mistakenly suggested, Minister Lamola’s presence in Lusaka underscored a fundamental truth: that diplomacy must be conducted with grace, especially when it involves sensitive matters of death, grief, and national identity.
South Africa’s spokesperson Chrispin Phiri rightly affirmed that the government was legally bound to honour the wishes of President Lungu’s immediate family, who chose not to have his remains repatriated.
That legal obligation was neither a choice nor a diplomatic slight – it was a testament to South Africa’s mature and measured respect for individual rights, even in the most high-profile and politically charged situations.
Prominent historian and academic Dr Sishuwa Sishuwa aptly captured the heart of the matter by stressing that this was not a geopolitical tug-of-war but a private family matter.
As Dr Sishuwa rightly pointed out, South African institutions – unlike in many parts of the continent – operate with a level of independence that shields them from political whims. That is a fact worth emulating.
In respecting the family’s decision, the South African government did not simply make a legal call – it demonstrated a rare blend of compassion and rule of law that has eluded many African states in similar moments.
Moreover, Mr Lamola’s engagement with President Hakainde Hichilema served a dual purpose: to assure the Zambian government that Pretoria remains a committed ally and to clearly communicate that Pretoria’s stance is guided not by politics but by legal and moral responsibility.
That distinction is crucial in a time where misinformation and emotional rhetoric can easily fuel division.
Yes, there is sorrow in knowing that a former head of State will not be laid to rest in the soil he once led. But there is also dignity in recognising that families, not governments, should have the final word on such personal and sacred decisions.
President Ramaphosa’s support for Zambians and his counterpart during this period of mourning further reflects a leadership that understands the delicate balance between sovereignty, law, and humanity.
As the region watches closely, South Africa has shown what it means to be a mature democracy – one that upholds legal obligations, honours human dignity and does so without unnecessary political theatre.
In a time of mourning, it is fitting to appreciate not only the legacy of the departed but also the moral clarity and decency displayed by those entrusted with managing the aftermath. South Africa has done just that.
