Family of Zambia's ex-President Lungu dismiss poisoning allegation - lawyers

BBC News - WorldEN 2 min read 100% complete February 17, 2026 at 06:04 PM

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The family of Zambia's former President Edgar Lungu, who died in South Africa in June, have dismissed allegations that he was poisoned. South African police are investigating the claims and have requested custody of Lungu's body, which remains in a South African morgue. Lungu's family lawyers stated they are cooperating with the investigation, but maintain the poisoning allegations are unfounded. A legal battle is ongoing between the family, who want a private burial in South Africa, and the Zambian government, which seeks repatriation and a state funeral. The investigation appears to stem from a public statement made by one of Lungu's daughters, which the family now denies.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Johannesburg ×230% Brig Athlenda Mathe 30% BBC ×240% Neo Mashele 50% Mashele Attorneys ×460% Hakainde Hichilema ×260% Zambia ×370% South Africa ×680% Edgar Lungu ×790%

Keywords

edgar lungu 100% poisoning allegation 90% burial dispute 80% zambia 70% criminal investigation 70% south africa 70% legal battle 60% hakainde hichilema 50% state funeral 50%