Zambian Government-Family Dispute Delays Edgar Lungu Funeral

The repatriation and funeral of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu have been stalled due to a dispute between his family and the current government led by President Hakainde Hichilema. Lungu's family has blocked the return of his body from South Africa, citing that Lungu had explicitly wished for Hichilema, his political rival, to have no involvement in the funeral proceedings. The government had planned a state funeral with full military honors and a public procession, but the family objected to changes in the funeral arrangements, including restricted public access and Hichilema's planned presence. Despite a previous agreement, disagreements resurfaced over the funeral program and the procession route, leading to the family's refusal to proceed with repatriation. President Hichilema has expressed condolences and called for national unity, while officials remain hopeful the deadlock can be resolved. The standoff highlights lingering political tensions between the two leaders stemming from past elections and rivalries.