The demise of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has ignited a fiery legal dispute, with the High Court in Pretoria recently issuing a halt on his burial. The Zambian government has filed a lawsuit against Lungu’s family, seeking to prevent his interment in South Africa until disagreements over his final resting place are resolved. This scenario unfolds as Makebi Zulu, the spokesperson for Lungu’s family, expresses concerns that the government may exploit the situation for its own publicity gain.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a church service, Zulu underscored the family’s desire to provide Lungu with a dignified farewell. He lamented the circumstances surrounding the former president’s death, highlighting that Lungu had travelled to South Africa on a commercial flight, allegedly stripped of the benefits that once accompanied his high office, including health insurance.
“How did he come on a commercial flight, flying economy, got to this place, walk through security clearance and immigration like a normal person? Waited for Uber outside the airport? Is that a life of a former president? Certainly not!” Zulu remarked, declaring that Lungu’s passing should not serve as a mere public relations stunt for the Zambian government.
As the case continues to unfold, Zulu emphasised that this moment represents an opportunity for the family to share their narrative about Lungu’s presidency and the perceived betrayal by the Zambian political system. “This is an opportunity for us to tell our story—a great story of President Edgar Lungu. How did he lead as a president, serve the nation […] and now in his death they wish to come back and pretend as though they took care of him?” he stated, rejecting the government’s narrative that seeks to portray a caring image toward the late leader.
Lungu, who had been receiving specialised healthcare for an unspecified illness, died earlier this month, an event that has sparked national interest and controversy. As legal proceedings carry on, the family is prepared to present evidence that they believe will vindicate Lungu and his legacy as president.