Zambia's Political Rift Deepens After Edgar Lungu's Death

The death of former Zambian president Edgar Lungu has intensified a longstanding feud with current president Hakainde Hichilema, creating turmoil over funeral arrangements and revealing the deep divisions within the country's political landscape.

The personal animosities shaping Zambia's political landscape have reached new heights following the death of former president Edgar Lungu, igniting a fierce dispute over funeral arrangements and reflecting a deep-seated rivalry with current president Hakainde Hichilema. As the nation mourns Lungu, the tension between his family and Hichilema has prevented many Zambians from finding the closure they seek.

Lungu, who governed Zambia from 2015 to 2021, passed away on June 5, but his family expressed a desire for Hichilema to stay away from his funeral, hinting at his serious resentment toward the sitting president. This feud is rooted in a history of political hostility and personal grievances, including Lungu’s alleged role in Hichilema's 2017 imprisonment. During that period, Hichilema was held on treason charges amid a politically charged climate that saw numerous arrests of his supporters.

The state funeral, originally planned for last weekend in Lusaka, was unexpectedly canceled, with reports of conflicts arising over the control of arrangements. Lungu's family claimed the government had reneged on an earlier agreement for a ceremony that respected their wishes. Consequently, the funeral is now expected to take place in South Africa, further complicating the chance for national mourning.

Compounding the tension, after Lungu's death, Hichilema, who took office after decisively defeating Lungu in 2021, faced criticism for his lack of a prompt public response to the passing. His message of unity, shared hours later, was perceived by some as insincere, amplifying divisions among supporters of both political factions.

Political analysts note that the bitterness between the two men has transcended elections, affecting Lungu's family, which has faced legal and financial pressures under the current administration. Hichilema's government has been purportedly targeting former PF allies with its anti-corruption campaigns, further deepening the rift.

Despite hopeful whispers of reconciliation following the 2021 election, Lungu's announcement of a political return at the end of 2023 hinted at ongoing dissatisfaction among his supporters, while complaints of police harassment and restriction of movement added another layer to his grievances.

As the nation awaits the conclusion of these events, many Zambians are left disappointed, wishing for a moment where differences could have been resolved, to allow for a united farewell to the former leader. However, the lingering hostility between Hichilema and Lungu's family indicates the chasm remains unchanged, denying the opportunity for collective mourning in a time of loss.