Hichilema's regime ordered to return Lungu's body

A South African court has ordered the return of the body of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu, just hours after the Zambian government announced it had taken possession of his remains.

The ruling marks the latest development in a protracted dispute between the government of Hakainde Hichilema and Lungu's family over funeral arrangements following his death in South Africa nearly 10 months ago.

According to reports, authorities under Hichilema's administration had secured the transfer of Lungu's body from a mortuary in South Africa, citing a court decision allowing the state to proceed with repatriation and a state funeral.

However, the same South African court later ordered that the remains be returned to a specified mortuary or one chosen by the Lungu family, pending further legal proceedings scheduled for May 21.

The Zambian government maintains that, as a former head of state, Lungu should be accorded a state funeral and buried at the presidential burial site in Lusaka.

In contrast, the family has insisted on a private burial, citing unresolved disagreements with the government over funeral arrangements.

The dispute follows earlier court proceedings in Pretoria, where a High Court ruling had initially granted the Zambian government authority to repatriate the body. That decision was contested by the family, prolonging the impasse.

The case underscores deep tensions between Lungu and his successor, with the disagreement over burial arrangements reflecting broader political divisions.

The matter is expected to return to court later this month, with the fate of Lungu's final resting place still unresolved.