The government is arguing that all matters relating to his final resting place must first be resolved in accordance with national laws and protocols.

According to legal papers filed by Zambia’s Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, the State is seeking an urgent court order to prevent the burial, which is scheduled for Wednesday. The case names several of Lungu’s family members and the funeral service company currently in possession of his remains.

Kabesha contends that the former President must be buried on Zambian soil with full military honours, as required by law and tradition. He stressed that state funerals are governed by official protocols and should reflect the collective interests of the Zambian people rather than private family preferences.

“Lungu was not just a private citizen, he was a former Head of State,” Kabesha said. “His burial must be handled in a manner that reflects the dignity of his office and our national customs. The public must take priority over personal wishes in this matter.”

--SABC/ChannelAfrica--