African Statesmen Close Lungu Mediation with Dignity, Respect for Family Decisions

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Own Correspondent

A quiet yet consequential chapter in African regional diplomacy has drawn to a close as a team of eminent statesmen and mediators has issued a final communiqué, affirming their deep respect for the decisions made by the Lungu family and expressing ongoing solidarity amid unresolved matters between the conflicting parties.

After months of strained relations marked by political rivalries and tensions surrounding funeral arrangements, a mediated agreement was reached between the Lungu family and President Hakainde Hichilema’s government.

The dispute centered on Lungu’s final rites and whether President Hichilema would attend. Former President Lungu passed away on June 5, 2025, in South Africa while undergoing medical treatment—a journey he undertook following prolonged tensions over access to care. In his final years, Lungu faced court rulings that barred him from future elections and accusations of political harassment, though no criminal proceedings were underway at the time of his death.

The high-level mediation team was chaired by former President of Malawi, Dr. Bakili Muluzi, a widely respected figure in African peace diplomacy. He was joined by Mama Graça Machel, a globally esteemed humanitarian and peace advocate, whose presence lent the process moral clarity and post-conflict wisdom. Completing the trio was His Royal Highness Prince Estifanos Matewos of Ethiopia, an influential voice in governance and traditional leadership who brought a Pan-African perspective rooted in cultural and spiritual sensitivity.

Speaking on Tuesday, June 24, Prince Estifanos delivered the final statement on behalf of the mediators. While acknowledging that the process did not yield all the hoped-for outcomes, he praised the dignity and grace with which the Lungu family conducted themselves. He pledged continued moral and diplomatic support, framing the moment not as a failure, but as a respectful pause in the broader journey of reconciliation.

“We reaffirm, with humility and conviction, our enduring commitment to reconciliation, unity, and the respectful engagement of all parties involved,” Prince Estifanos declared. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the people of Zambia, and to communities across the continent, for their patience, prayers, and steadfast belief in the power of African-led dialogue to resolve African challenges with dignity and wisdom.”

The team signaled their continued availability to facilitate dialogue, particularly in helping to resolve outstanding matters between the governments of Zambia and South Africa. In the meantime, their message stood clear: healing takes time—and the continent’s traditions of wisdom, respect, and quiet diplomacy remain as vital as ever.