Former President Edgar Lungu's death has led to an unprecedented struggle over his remains, with a Pretoria court siding with the Zambian government against Lungu's family's wishes. The situation highlights deep political divides and accusations of witchcraft, as tensions persist between the family and the ruling party amid calls for a dignified state funeral.
Controversy Erupts Over Final Resting Place of Zambia's Former President
Controversy Erupts Over Final Resting Place of Zambia's Former President
The death of former President Edgar Lungu has ignited a contentious dispute over his burial rights, pitting his family against the Zambian government in a profound political clash.
The demise of Edgar Lungu, Zambia’s former president, has triggered an explosive conflict regarding his burial, drawing in family allegiances and governmental authority. Lungu passed away two months ago in South Africa after an undisclosed illness, and now his family is at loggerheads with the Zambian government over the handling of his remains.
A Pretoria court recently ruled in favor of the Zambian government, allowing the repatriation of Lungu’s body for a state funeral despite legal appeals from his family. This verdict has sparked jubilation among supporters of the ruling party, many of whom have taken to social media to proclaim, “It’s coming home!” – a phrase often employed by English football fans celebrating victories. Such expressions, albeit undignified in this context, reflect the political rift that has unfolded.
As debates intensify, Zambians seem to oscillate between feelings of grief and fatigue over the ongoing disputes that overshadow pressing socio-economic concerns. The animosity between Lungu's family and the current president, Hakainde Hichilema, dates back to bitter political rivalries, complicating the emotional tributes expected during times of mourning.
In South Africa, upon hearing the court's decision, Lungu's sister Bertha lamented emotionally, publicly confronting Zambia's Attorney General. This altercation underscores the family's resolve to honor what they believe to be Lungu's last wishes, including a request for Hichilema to avoid any association with his body. The family's sentiment was previously agreed upon in June but unraveled over political disagreements regarding Lungu's funeral arrangements.
To understand the roots of this feud, one must consider the tumultuous history between Hichilema and Lungu, marked by intense political rivalry that saw Hichilema imprisoned under treason charges in 2017. Allegations of harassment have emerged from Lungu's family against Hichilema’s administration, which now faces immense pressure to fulfill a state funeral conventionally afforded to former Zambian leaders.
Government officials remind the public of existing traditions, but tensions remain heightened as accusations circulate that Lungu's body may be needed for ritualistic purposes in a country where belief in witchcraft is prevalent. Zambian historian Dr. Sishuwa cautions that the government's efforts to distance the family from a dignified burial contradict their stated ambitions to honor Lungu’s memory, intensifying national divides.
Political supporters have rallied behind Hichilema, reinforcing his commitment to his duties, while the Lungu family remains determined to ensure that their loved one's funeral aligns with their beliefs. With further court decisions pending, Zambians are left grappling with the implications of this high-stakes drama, raising questions about honor, legacy, and the impact of politics on humanity's final farewell.
