A South African court has ruled that the body of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu must be repatriated to Zambia for a state funeral, despite objections from his family. The Pretoria High Court sided with the Zambian government, overturning the family's plans to bury him privately in South Africa, where he passed away in June.
Family's Wishes vs. Public Interest
The Zambian government argued that the greater public interest should take precedence over personal wishes. This decision follows a long-standing feud between Lungu and his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema. Lungu's family claimed he had expressed a desire for Hichilema not to attend his funeral.
Judge Aubrey Ledwaba stated that the Zambian government was "entitled to repatriate the body of the late president" and ordered the family to "immediately surrender" it to authorities. No order was made regarding the costs of the application.
Emotional Scenes in Court
The ruling sparked emotional reactions from Lungu's family, with reports of loud wailing in the courtroom. Zambian Attorney General Mulilo D Kabesha stated that the ruling was not a victory for the government but rather "what makes good sense," emphasizing that a former president belongs to the nation.
Lungu's death, at the age of 68, from an undisclosed illness, initiated a dispute between the family and the government over funeral arrangements. While an initial agreement for a state funeral was reached, disagreements over the details led the family to pursue burial in South Africa.
Burial at Embassy Park Presidential Burial Site
The court's judgment mandates that Lungu's remains be buried at the Embassy Park Presidential Burial Site in Lusaka. The family is now required to hand over the body to a state representative to prepare for the state funeral.
- Court sides with Zambian government
- Family wanted private burial in South Africa
- Lungu to be buried at Embassy Park in Lusaka