The sudden termination of the national mourning period for Edgar Lungu, Zambia's sixth president, has led to uncertainty surrounding his funeral. President Hakainde Hichilema announced the cancellation after Lungu's family halted the return of his remains from South Africa, stating disagreements over burial plans. The family’s refusal to allow the repatriation has sparked outrage and drawn criticism from political parties and civil organizations alike, with calls for a peaceful resolution respecting Lungu's legacy.
Funeral Plans in Limbo for Late Zambian President Amidst Controversy
Funeral Plans in Limbo for Late Zambian President Amidst Controversy
National mourning for Edgar Lungu, Zambia's former president, comes to an abrupt end as family clashes with government over burial arrangements.
The situation escalated sharply when Hichilema declared an end to the mourning period, urging the nation to "resume normal life." Initially, the mourning period was scheduled from June 8 to June 14, later extended until June 23, reflecting attempts to negotiate with Lungu's family regarding funeral arrangements. Plans had been made for a grand reception for the late president, with military honours and public grieving.
However, the mood changed on Wednesday when Lungu's family blocked the transfer, claiming the government did not uphold its end of pre-agreed funeral terms. An expression of regret from Hichilema followed, acknowledging the disappointment of the South African authorities involved in the transfer process.
Hichilema stressed that Lungu rightfully belongs to the Zambian people and should be honored with a state burial in Zambia. Meanwhile, the opposition party, Patriotic Front (PF), has sided with Lungu's family, charging the government with politicizing the funeral. Civil society leaders are urging peaceful discussions to resolve the controversy, with an appeal for respect for the dignified memory of the late president.
Lungu's death earlier this month in South Africa has stirred emotions across the nation, especially given his significant role in Zambian politics until his defeat in the 2021 elections. Despite being barred from political candidacy due to term limits, Lungu's political influence remained evident as he continued to critique the current administration.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this unresolved funeral situation, calls for a resolution that respects Lungu's contributions to the country are gaining momentum, highlighting the necessity for unity in a challenging time for Zambia.
However, the mood changed on Wednesday when Lungu's family blocked the transfer, claiming the government did not uphold its end of pre-agreed funeral terms. An expression of regret from Hichilema followed, acknowledging the disappointment of the South African authorities involved in the transfer process.
Hichilema stressed that Lungu rightfully belongs to the Zambian people and should be honored with a state burial in Zambia. Meanwhile, the opposition party, Patriotic Front (PF), has sided with Lungu's family, charging the government with politicizing the funeral. Civil society leaders are urging peaceful discussions to resolve the controversy, with an appeal for respect for the dignified memory of the late president.
Lungu's death earlier this month in South Africa has stirred emotions across the nation, especially given his significant role in Zambian politics until his defeat in the 2021 elections. Despite being barred from political candidacy due to term limits, Lungu's political influence remained evident as he continued to critique the current administration.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this unresolved funeral situation, calls for a resolution that respects Lungu's contributions to the country are gaining momentum, highlighting the necessity for unity in a challenging time for Zambia.
