In a dramatic turn of events, deceased former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu will be laid to rest in South Africa.
Lungu’s family confirmed the decision in a statement issued on Friday and commended the South African government for its non-interference and respect for their decision.
This will be the first time a former head of state of another country is buried in South Africa.
The decision to bury Lungu in South Africa seemingly stems from the bitter rivalry between him and Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema.
Hakainde had nonetheless announced a period of national mourning and prepared for a state funeral with full honours for Lungu. All these have since been canceled.
Dating back, Lungu defeated Hichilema in the disputed 2016 presidential race, and a year later, Hichilema was jailed for four months over treason. Since then, the two had never reconciled.
In 2021, Hichilema turned the tables with a landslide win. But the animosity lingered. Lungu maintained a strong political presence, frequently accusing the administration of restricting his movements and using state machinery to intimidate him.
