Family of Zambia’s ex-president Lungu halts return of his body
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Tensions rise as the family of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu halts the repatriation of his body over funeral disagreements.
Family Halts Return of Former President’s Body
The body of Zambia’s former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu was expected to return from South Africa on Wednesday. However, in a sudden development, his family halted the repatriation, accusing the government of violating key agreements related to his funeral arrangements.
Finalized Plans Disrupted Last Minute
According to family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, a private charter flight had been arranged to return Lungu’s remains to Lusaka following days of negotiation. Despite these plans, the family expressed deep distrust in the government’s commitment, stating it would be “very difficult to believe” that officials would adhere to their end of the agreed funeral program.
Disagreement Over Funeral Programme
The family was particularly angered by the government’s unilateral release of a funeral programme without consultation. Mr Zulu stated that this was a breach of trust and protocol. “Sadly so, that the mortal remains of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu will not return today,” he said during a press conference from South Africa.
President Hichilema’s Role Sparks Tensions
President Hakainde Hichilema was scheduled to receive Lungu’s body at the Lusaka airport, a symbolic gesture that was meant to reflect national unity. However, it appears the former president’s family opposed his involvement from the outset. According to them, Lungu had explicitly instructed that Hichilema “should not come anywhere near his body.”
Deal Reached—Then Broken
Initial reports indicated a compromise had been reached: Hichilema would be allowed to preside over a state funeral scheduled for 22 June, with burial to follow the next day. Lungu’s body was to lie in state at his Lusaka residence. However, the family now claims the government deviated from the agreement, causing the second suspension of the body’s repatriation.
Opposition Party Stands With the Family
The opposition Patriotic Front (PF), which Lungu led until his death, has voiced full support for the family’s decision. The party has accused the government of politicizing the mourning period and disregarding Lungu’s final wishes. PF officials insist that the funeral should be handled with the dignity and neutrality it deserves, free from political interference.
A Long-Standing Political Rivalry
The strained relations between Lungu and Hichilema stretch back years. After Lungu’s six-year rule from 2015 to 2021, he was defeated in the general election by Hichilema in a landslide. Though he initially retired from politics, Lungu later made a comeback and expressed interest in contesting future elections—an ambition cut short when the Constitutional Court ruled he had already served the maximum two terms.
Lungu’s Final Years Marked by Conflict
In his final years, Lungu remained a controversial figure in Zambian politics. He frequently accused the government of harassment and even claimed he was under de facto house arrest, alleging restrictions on his movements and travel. These accusations were denied by state authorities but underscored his ongoing friction with the ruling party.
Nation in Mourning, Resolution Unclear
A 16-day national mourning period is currently underway in Zambia, but the delay in returning the body has left the nation in suspense. Citizens expecting a dignified farewell for the former president are now caught in a wave of confusion and political drama. The government has yet to comment on the latest developments.
Hope for a Peaceful Conclusion
As both sides remain at odds, many Zambians are calling for calm and reconciliation. Observers emphasize that the funeral of a former head of state should transcend politics and reflect national unity. For now, however, Edgar Lungu’s final journey home remains uncertain.
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