Breaking! New twist in funnel rites of late President Lungu, as family halts repatriation of remains amid row with govt

The family of the late former President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, has halted plans to receive his remains, citing growing tensions and broken agreements with government over funeral arrangements.

Zambia Monitor had earlier reported emerging uncertainties around the funeral programme for the late president after a top government official countered an earlier statement regarding preparations for the event.

Family spokesperson, Makebi Zulu, announced during a press briefing on Wednesday from Pretoria that although an initial consensus had been reached with authorities, government actions had since undermined those agreements.

Key concerns included the Road Development Agency’s June 16 announcement of roadworks along the designated funeral procession route without consultation, and a June 17 statement by the Secretary to the Cabinet restricting public participation in receiving the body — again, allegedly without family input.

Read more: Developing Story: Uncertainty surrounds ex-President Lungu’s funeral programme, as govt counters earlier statement

Zulu also revealed that an unapproved programme had been released, redirecting the body from the airport straight to a church service and Mulungushi International Conference Centre, bypassing the family home.

“Despite raising these issues, government continued to publish conflicting programmes. Regrettably, we’ve resolved that President Lungu’s remains will not return home today,” Zulu said.

During the briefing, Lungu’s sister, Bertha Lungu, said it was disappointing that government kept on issuing different statements despite reaching an agreement with the family.

The family expressed hope that one day the late President would be buried in a manner that honours both his legacy and the family’s wishes.

Meanwhile, the South African Defence Force had be seen rolling back the red carpet and left the airport after the Lungu family declined to repatriate the body today, citing differences with the government.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.