Court Orders Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu to be Buried Back Home Despite Family's Opposition

A South African court has ruled in favor of the Zambian government to repatriate the body of former President Edgar Lungu, paving the way for a state funeral despite his family's objections. The Pretoria high court handed down the ruling, ordering Lungu's family to surrender his body to the authorities for repatriation to Zambia.

Lungu's family had wanted to bury him privately in South Africa, where he passed away in June at the age of 68. However, the Zambian government had other plans, seeking to give him a state funeral. The dispute has highlighted the long-standing feud between Lungu and his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema.

Judge Aubrey Ledwaba ruled that the Zambian government was "entitled to repatriate the body of the late president" and ordered Lungu's family to "immediately surrender" it to the authorities. The decision was met with visible distress from Lungu's relatives, who were left visibly distraught by the ruling.

Zambian attorney general Mulilo D Kaburema said the ruling was not a win for the government but rather "what makes good sense". "When you are the father of the nation, you can't restrict yourself to your immediate family," he added, praising the court for making a "sound judgment".

Lungu's presidency was marked by controversy, and his relationship with Hichilema has been strained. The dispute over his burial has further highlighted the deep divisions between the two leaders. Despite this, the Zambian government has welcomed the court's decision, saying that Lungu "belongs to the nation".

The repatriation of Lungu's body is now set to proceed, with the government taking charge of the arrangements for his state funeral. The decision has sparked a mix of emotions, with some praising the court's ruling and others expressing sadness and disappointment.