Following the cancellation of the return of former President Edgar Lungu's body, President Hakainde Hichilema has concluded the national mourning period, sparking controversy over burial decisions. The family’s refusal to repatriate the body has led to political tensions and calls for resolution among civic leaders.
National Mourning Cut Short for Zambia's Ex-President Edgar Lungu Amid Family Disputes
National Mourning Cut Short for Zambia's Ex-President Edgar Lungu Amid Family Disputes
The abrupt termination of the national mourning period by President Hakainde Hichilema casts uncertainty over burial arrangements for former President Edgar Lungu following a family-government standoff.
Zambia is grappling with turmoil as President Hakainde Hichilema declared on Thursday the end of a national mourning period for former President Edgar Lungu. This announcement follows a significant disagreement between Lungu's family and the government, particularly concerning his funeral arrangements. Family members blocked the return of Lungu's remains from South Africa, asserting that the government did not adhere to previously agreed-upon plans.
Initially scheduled to last from June 8 to June 14, the mourning period was extended to June 23 after attempts by officials to mediate with Lungu's relatives. During this period, flags were displayed at half-mast and reflective music played across radio stations, honoring the ex-president.
Despite the government's preparation to receive Lungu's body with military accolades, the refusal of his family to allow the repatriation has left the nation in limbo. The family expressed hope that Lungu's remains would return to Zambia for burial, albeit without a specified timetable.
President Hichilema expressed disappointment over this development, emphasizing that Lungu's legacy belongs to the Zambian people and reiterating the necessity for a respectful burial at home. He criticized the drawn-out mourning process, deeming it unsustainable.
Political tensions escalated as the opposition Patriotic Front (PF), Lungu's former party, took a stand in support of the family's actions, accusing the government of politicizing the grieving process. Civil society and religious leaders have urged for immediate talks to honor the former president while maintaining national unity.
Edgar Lungu served as Zambia's sixth president from 2015 until his defeat in 2021. His contributions to Zambian politics have remained significant, even after legal decisions barred him from future presidential bids. As the situation develops, the government has pledged to engage further with Lungu’s family to resolve the burial conflict.
