EDGAR LUNGU’S FAMILY INSIST ON PRIVATE FUNERAL AFTER FAILED NEGOTIATIONS WITH GOVT

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Fomer President Edgar Chagwa Lungu addressing the Nation on Friday,April 24,2020 at State House in Lusaka. PICTURE BY SALIM HENRY/STATE HOUSE ©2020

By Prudence Chota

The family of Zambia’s late Sixth Republican President, Edgar Lungu, has requested that the government respect their decision to conduct his funeral privately, in accordance with his expressed wishes.

Family spokesperson Makebi Zulu has expressed the family’s disappointment over what they described as shifting positions by the government despite earlier agreements.

Mr. Zulu says all logistical preparations had already been made to ensure Lungu’s wishes are honoured.

Mr. Zulu further says the family does not want President Hakaidne Hichilema anywhere near his body for well-known reasons.

He notes that the family has found continued engagement with the government difficult, citing pre-set conditions that undermine the family’s authority over how the late president is to be mourned.

The family has since called for public understanding, reaffirming their commitment to honouring Mr. Lungu in a manner befitting his legacy, while staying true to his personal instructions.

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