In a historic ruling, Zambia gains the right to repatriate the remains of ex-president Lungu for a state funeral, despite family resistance regarding funeral arrangements.
Zambia Wins Court Battle to Repatriate Former President Lungu's Body
Zambia Wins Court Battle to Repatriate Former President Lungu's Body
South African court allows Zambia to proceed with state funeral plans for former President Edgar Lungu amid family objections.
The Pretoria High Court has delivered a significant ruling favoring the Zambian government, authorizing the repatriation of the body of former President Edgar Lungu despite opposition from his family. The court determined that Lungu’s remains could be transferred back to Zambia for a state funeral, contradicting the family’s aim for a private burial in South Africa, where Lungu passed away in June after battling an undisclosed illness at 68.
Judge Aubrey Ledwaba stated that the Zambian government had the legitimate right to reclaim the body, instructing Lungu's family to "immediately surrender" the remains to the relevant authorities. This decision arises amid a complex history of tensions between Lungu and his successive successor, President Hakainde Hichilema. The family had expressed that Lungu had desired Hichilema to be excluded from his funeral, adding another layer to the dispute.
The Zambian authorities had initially requested to assert control over funeral arrangements, highlighting the necessity of honoring broader public interests over personal wishes. Following Lungu's death and the ensuing disagreements, his family suggested a private ceremony, which further complicated discussions with the Zambian government, who had originally reached an agreement for a state funeral before relations deteriorated.
Lungu's presidency spanned from 2015 until his defeat in the elections in 2021, after which he initially withdrew from political life but later attempted a resurgence. The details surrounding the funeral are still evolving, and developments will continue to unfold as this story progresses. Stay tuned for further updates.
Judge Aubrey Ledwaba stated that the Zambian government had the legitimate right to reclaim the body, instructing Lungu's family to "immediately surrender" the remains to the relevant authorities. This decision arises amid a complex history of tensions between Lungu and his successive successor, President Hakainde Hichilema. The family had expressed that Lungu had desired Hichilema to be excluded from his funeral, adding another layer to the dispute.
The Zambian authorities had initially requested to assert control over funeral arrangements, highlighting the necessity of honoring broader public interests over personal wishes. Following Lungu's death and the ensuing disagreements, his family suggested a private ceremony, which further complicated discussions with the Zambian government, who had originally reached an agreement for a state funeral before relations deteriorated.
Lungu's presidency spanned from 2015 until his defeat in the elections in 2021, after which he initially withdrew from political life but later attempted a resurgence. The details surrounding the funeral are still evolving, and developments will continue to unfold as this story progresses. Stay tuned for further updates.
