Family Spokesperson for the late former President, Edgar Lungu, Makebi Zulu, has informed the nation that the body of the former Head of State, will not be repatriated today as earlier expected.
Mr. Zulu explained that the funeral program released by government does not align with what was agreed upon with the Lungu family.
He expressed concern that the decision to restrict public access at the airport to receive the body, was made without consulting the family.
“The family had agreed that all decisions and programs related to the funeral would be made jointly,” said Mr. Zulu.
He specifically pointed to the program that stated President Hakainde Hichilema, would lead the public viewing of the body at Mulungushi International Conference Centre as an example of a unilateral decision by government.
“That decision was made without the family’s consent and goes against earlier agreements,” said Mr. Zulu.
He stressed that the family is concerned government may not honor the agreed-upon arrangements surrounding the funeral of the former president, hence its decision to postpone his repatriation.
Mr. Zulu said that the family still hopes that the body will be repatriated to Zambia in the coming days, once all outstanding matters are resolved.
Angel Kasabo
