Zambia's Edgar Lungu to be Laid to Rest in South Africa Amid Funeral Dispute

In a surprising turn of events, Zambia's late President Edgar Lungu will be buried in South Africa following a contentious dispute over funeral arrangements with the Zambian government.

The family of Edgar Lungu has announced that he will be interred in South Africa after a disagreement with the Zambian government regarding the funeral protocols. Initially slated for a state funeral in his home country, President Hakainde Hichilema had declared a national mourning period which has since been cut short due to this dispute. The family decided to hold a private burial in Johannesburg, honoring Lungu's wishes, which included a directive against Hichilema attending the funeral.

Family spokesperson Makebi Zulu expressed gratitude to the South African government for respecting their decision during this "deeply emotional period." President Hichilema, in his address, emphasized that Lungu, as a former leader, should be honored and buried in Zambia, but the impasse over arrangements prompted an abrupt end to the mourning observance.

The turmoil surrounding Lungu's burial has drawn comments from various political factions and civil society groups. The opposition Patriotic Front has echoed the family’s stance, accusing the government of politicizing a solemn occasion. Civil leaders have urged for dialogue and resolution, emphasizing the need to honor Lungu while maintaining national unity.

Lungu, who served as president from 2015 to 2021, passed away earlier this month in South Africa while undergoing medical treatment. His legacy remains influential within Zambian politics despite his recent electoral defeat; he held aspirations to return to the political arena which were stymied by a court ruling citing term limits. The situation surrounding his funeral highlights deep political divides in Zambia and the ongoing complexities of his post-presidency legacy.