The ongoing animosity between Zambia's two political leaders casts a shadow over the nation, disrupting what should have been a time of unity and remembrance.
**Zambian Politics: A Feud That Continues After Death**
**Zambian Politics: A Feud That Continues After Death**
A bitter rivalry between Zambia's late president Edgar Lungu and his successor Hakainde Hichilema complicates mourning and funeral arrangements.
In Zambia, the passing of former President Edgar Lungu has revealed longstanding enmity between him and current President Hakainde Hichilema, tainting the mourning process. The intensity of their feud was highlighted by Lungu's family's claim that he wished for Hichilema to stay away from his funeral, making plans for state honors nearly impossible.
Lungu, who was president from 2015 until 2021, died on June 5, his family announcing his death from South Africa while emphasizing dignity in their loss. As the planned state funeral approached, concerns mounted over the absence of Hichilema's timely response to Lungu's death. Initially, Lungu's daughter confirmed her father's passing without any immediate comments from the sitting president, which raised eyebrows among political observers.
Despite the long history of hostilities dating back to Lungu's administration when Hichilema was imprisoned on treason charges, Zambia was hopeful that the funeral could bridge their differences. Yet, as state funeral arrangements unraveled, it became clear that unity was elusive. Hichilema, who took office after defeating Lungu in 2021, has faced criticism from Lungu’s supporters who feel the current administration has perpetuated a hostile environment for Lungu's family.
Last-minute negotiations faltered, with accusations that the government reasserted control over the funeral plans after reaching initial agreements with the Lungu family. Following these breakdowns, the government announced that the funeral would take place in South Africa, raising speculation about Hichilema's non-attendance. This turn of events has not only deprived the Zambian public of the chance to pay their respects but has also deepened the divisive atmosphere that characterized the relationship between Lungu and Hichilema.
The family expressed concerns over the perceived disrespect in funeral arrangements, revealing significant divides within Zambian society, where many wished for closure that now seems improbable. Despite calls for peace and reconciliation, the rivalry underscores the challenges that have stymied national unity in wake of Lungu's death. The political implications of this tragic time have left many Zambians wondering if they will ever witness a resolution to a conflict that has echoed throughout their political landscape.
Lungu, who was president from 2015 until 2021, died on June 5, his family announcing his death from South Africa while emphasizing dignity in their loss. As the planned state funeral approached, concerns mounted over the absence of Hichilema's timely response to Lungu's death. Initially, Lungu's daughter confirmed her father's passing without any immediate comments from the sitting president, which raised eyebrows among political observers.
Despite the long history of hostilities dating back to Lungu's administration when Hichilema was imprisoned on treason charges, Zambia was hopeful that the funeral could bridge their differences. Yet, as state funeral arrangements unraveled, it became clear that unity was elusive. Hichilema, who took office after defeating Lungu in 2021, has faced criticism from Lungu’s supporters who feel the current administration has perpetuated a hostile environment for Lungu's family.
Last-minute negotiations faltered, with accusations that the government reasserted control over the funeral plans after reaching initial agreements with the Lungu family. Following these breakdowns, the government announced that the funeral would take place in South Africa, raising speculation about Hichilema's non-attendance. This turn of events has not only deprived the Zambian public of the chance to pay their respects but has also deepened the divisive atmosphere that characterized the relationship between Lungu and Hichilema.
The family expressed concerns over the perceived disrespect in funeral arrangements, revealing significant divides within Zambian society, where many wished for closure that now seems improbable. Despite calls for peace and reconciliation, the rivalry underscores the challenges that have stymied national unity in wake of Lungu's death. The political implications of this tragic time have left many Zambians wondering if they will ever witness a resolution to a conflict that has echoed throughout their political landscape.
