The former head of state died at the age of 68, sparking an outpouring of tributes and reflection on his legacy.

A memorial service was held in Pretoria, where members of the Zambian diaspora gathered to honour Lungu’s life and leadership. During the service, Acting President of the Patriotic Front (PF), Given Lubinda, made an emotional appeal for the nation to uphold the dignity Lungu was denied in his final years.

Lubinda recalled a particularly painful incident in which Lungu’s residence was surrounded by police, with officers breaking down his gate, an act he described as deeply disrespectful to a former leader. “He was once saluted by these very officers, and later treated without the dignity befitting a former President,” Lubinda said.

He urged Zambians and the country’s leadership to honour Lungu’s final wishes and preserve his legacy with fairness and compassion.

--Khayelihle Khumalo/ChannelAfrica--