Vice President Mutale Nalumango says there is no law making it an offense for the family of the late former President Edgar Lungu to retain the body.
Mrs. Nalumango acknowledged that while the act may be considered contrary to cultural and traditional norms, there is no legal provision the government can use to compel the family to release the body.
Speaking during the Vice President’s Question time in the National Assembly, Mrs. Nalumango said that if there were any legal breach, the state would take appropriate action.
Mrs. Nalumango was responding to a question from Bweengwa Member of Parliament Kasautu Michelo , who wanted to Know whether it was unlawful for the family to continue withholding the body and delaying the burial.
Meanwhile, the Vice President has expressed concern that some political figures are using the late President’s passing for political gain.
She has since urged individuals with selfish motives to step back and allow the family of the late former President to make burial decisions independently.
Mrs. Nalumango has reiterated government’s commitment to reach a consensus with the family and that it remains open to further dialogue.
By Margaret Mwanza
