In a dramatic reversal, a South African court has ordered the Zambian government to return the body of former President Edgar Lungu, hours after authorities announced they had taken possession of it. The ruling adds another twist to a bitter, 10-month dispute between Lungu's family and the state over funeral arrangements.
Lungu, who led Zambia from 2015 to 2021, died at a clinic in Pretoria, South Africa, at age 68. His family insists on a private burial, while the government seeks a state funeral at the presidential burial ground in Lusaka. The feud reflects a long-standing rivalry between Lungu and his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema.
Earlier this week, Zambia's government claimed a South African high court had formally transferred Lungu's remains to the state after the family failed to proceed with an appeal. However, hours later, the same court ordered the body's return pending a hearing on May 21.
Complicating matters, the funeral home holding the body has reportedly refused to take it back, asking the family to find alternative storage. Family spokesman Makebi Zulu disputed that the appeal had lapsed, stating the correct procedures were followed.
Lungu's death triggered chaos, with conflicting announcements from the government and his Patriotic Front party. According to the family, the ex-president did not want Hichilema at his funeral or anywhere near his body.