The article details the controversy surrounding the funeral of Zambia's former President Edgar Lungu, who recently passed away. After a dispute over the repatriation of his body for burial in Zambia, Lungu's family has chosen South Africa for the private burial, igniting political tensions.
Zambia's Ex-President Edgar Lungu to Be Buried in South Africa Amid Funeral Dispute
Zambia's Ex-President Edgar Lungu to Be Buried in South Africa Amid Funeral Dispute
The family of late Zambian leader Edgar Lungu announces burial in South Africa, following a disagreement with the government over funeral arrangements.
Zambia is grappling with a significant political row following the death of former President Edgar Lungu, whose family has announced that he will be buried in South Africa in a private ceremony. This decision comes after contentious negotiations with the current government, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, over funeral arrangements.
Initially, the government proceeded with a national mourning period for Lungu, but relations rapidly deteriorated as the family refused to allow his body to be brought back to Zambia. The government, which had prepared to honor Lungu with a state funeral, expressed disappointment over this turn of events.
Family spokesperson Makebi Zulu stated, "We wish to announce that the funeral and burial of our beloved Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu will take place here in South Africa, in accordance with the family's wishes." He expressed gratitude to the South African government for respecting their wishes during this difficult time.
President Hichilema had previously emphasized that Lungu belonged to Zambia and should be afforded full honors upon burial within the country. The planned mourning period, which was to extend until late June, has now been cut short as the government seeks to return to normalcy amidst the political turmoil surrounding Lungu's funeral.
Lungu, who served as the sixth president of Zambia from 2015 to 2021, passed away while receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness. While he experienced a loss in the 2021 elections, he maintained significant influence within Zambian politics. Following the decision to bury Lungu in South Africa, opposition leaders criticized the government's handling of the situation, stating that it has turned a solemn occasion into a "political game."
Call for dialogue and humility has emerged from civil society groups and religious leaders, urging a resolution that honors Lungu's memory while promoting national unity.
