Lungu, aged 68, died from cardiac complications during surgery after receiving specialized medical treatment in South Africa.

Legal Challenge Initiated by Zambian Government

While a burial or memorial service was reportedly planned by the family for Wednesday, June 25, in Hillbrow, Johannesburg, the Zambian government has filed an urgent court application with the High Court in Pretoria seeking to halt the burial in South Africa.

Zambia's Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, initiated a public interest lawsuit against Lungu's family and the funeral service company, arguing that the former head of state should be buried in Zambia with full military honours in accordance with national law and traditions.

Family's Stance vs. Government's Push for Repatriation

This legal action comes amid reports that Lungu's family rejected the offer of a state funeral in Zambia and opted for burial in South Africa, citing the former president's alleged wish not to have President Hakainde Hichilema, his political rival, involved in his funeral.

The Zambian government, however, is pushing for repatriation, citing legal precedent from the burial of Zambia's founding father, Kenneth Kaunda, where the courts prioritized public interest over personal wishes.

Current Status and Court Proceedings

Reports on June 25 indicate that the Pretoria High Court is hearing the case regarding the application for an interim interdict to stop the burial in South Africa.

The situation highlights deep divisions between Lungu's family and the current Zambian government, with the final decision on his resting place pending the court's ruling and potential further dialogue between the parties.