This marks a dramatic escalation of tensions over how the late leader should be laid to rest.

Speaking from South Africa (SA) on Thursday, family Spokesperson and lawyer Makebi Zulu stated firmly that the late president had made it clear he did not want President Hakainde Hichilema “anywhere near” his body.

“It is the desire of the family that the conscience of the deceased should not be betrayed,” Zulu said. “We will not sacrifice matters of principle at the altar of convenience.”

The government had been preparing to repatriate Lungu’s remains to Zambia on Wednesday, but those plans were halted following disagreements with his family and members of the opposition Patriotic Front party. Zulu revealed that the family had already finalised independent logistics to return and bury the late leader in accordance with his wishes, without state intervention.

The family accused government officials of shifting goalposts and disregarding prior agreements. “The government changed positions after so-called consultations. It became clear the family’s input was not being respected,” Zulu said.

He also made it known that Lungu’s death does not give the state exclusive rights over how he is mourned, saying, “The government has no superior claim over his remains than his own family.”

This standoff marks a sharp turn in Zambia’s political climate, reviving old rivalries between Lungu’s Patriotic Front and Hichilema’s United Party for National Development.

While the government has yet to publicly respond to the family’s latest statement, Zulu confirmed that the public would be informed once alternative arrangements were finalised.

Lungu died last week in SA at the age of 68.  

--ChannelAfrica--