In brief
Despite Edgar Lungu's recent passing, a fierce dispute over his funeral arrangements illustrates the deep-seated rivalry between him and President Hakainde Hichilema, with legal action complicating the burial process.
Amidst the political turmoil in Zambia, the recent death of former President Edgar Lungu has sparked a renewed conflict that transcends into the afterlife. Lungu, who passed away at the age of 68 in South Africa after receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness, has yet to be buried due to ongoing disputes between his family and the current administration led by President Hakainde Hichilema.For years, the relationship between Lungu and Hichilema has been marred by animosity, marked by police raids on one another's homes during their respective tenures. Lungu’s government previously imprisoned Hichilema over what was deemed a failure to facilitate a convoy, and in the wake of Lungu’s death, Hichilema's regime has moved to revoke Lungu's retirement benefits, citing his renewed political engagement.As the funeral arrangements unfold, Hichilema has mandated a state funeral for Lungu in Zambia, while Lungu's family contends that their late loved one would not have wanted the involvement of his political adversary. In their view, a burial in South Africa is the most fitting tribute, honoring Lungu’s wishes.However, the family's intentions faced a setback when a South African court intervened in response to legal action taken by the Zambian government, temporarily halting the family’s plans to inter Lungu outside Zambia. Makebi Zulu, a spokesperson for the Lungu family, emphasized their desire to provide a respectful farewell free from political theatrics or public relations considerations, asserting that a dignified burial is the family's priority amidst this ongoing political rivalry.
