Lungu, who died earlier this month while undergoing specialised medical care in SA, was expected to be laid to rest next Monday in Lusaka. However, tensions between his relatives and officials in Lusaka have disrupted those plans.

Family members have accused the government of reneging on crucial funeral agreements and say they have lost confidence in the state’s willingness to uphold its commitments.

“We are deeply disappointed,” a close family member told reporters. “Given the broken promises, it’s hard to trust that the government will follow through.”

Lungu’s remains were scheduled to be repatriated today, but the latest disagreement has halted the process. In response, authorities have extended the official period of mourning until next week.

No new date has yet been confirmed for the funeral.

--ChannelAfrica--