Zambia's Edgar Lungu: Family and Government Reach Agreement on Funeral Plans

After days of negotiation, the family of Zambia's late former president Edgar Lungu reached an agreement with the government for his funeral arrangements. Lungu, who passed away at the age of 68 in South Africa, previously left instructions forbidding his political rival and current president, Hakainde Hichilema, from being involved in his funeral. However, a resolution was achieved, allowing Hichilema to preside over a state funeral scheduled for the coming Sunday.

Lungu's body will be flown back to Lusaka on a private charter, receiving military honors upon arrival before lying in state at both his residence and a public venue where citizens can pay their respects. Despite Lungu's past criticism of the current administration, his family acknowledged the government's role in the agreements made. The situation, fraught with tension, raised questions within the Zambian community about how best to honor their former leader.

The funeral arrangements include a state funeral on June 22, followed by the former president's burial on Monday, with uncertainty remaining regarding the exact burial location. Family spokesperson, Makebi Zulu, offered apologies for the distress caused by the lengthy negotiations while appealing for unity during this challenging time. As Zambia reflects on the legacy of Edgar Lungu, all eyes will be on the forthcoming memorial events.