The Foreign Desk Explainer 472: The furious funeral row over Zambia’s former president
Jun 18, 2025
The rivalry between former Zambian President Edgar Lungu and current President Hakainde Hichilema takes center stage, even after Lungu's passing. Delve into the intricate rituals and military honors typical of state funerals, highlighting their political significance. Discover how personal conflicts and political tensions have complicated the mourning process, revealing the fascinating dynamics at play during this tumultuous event.
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Zambian Funeral Sparks Political Conflict
- Zambia turned a typical state funeral into a bitter political dispute over the deceased president's funeral arrangements.
- This conflict reflects deep personal and political divisions beyond the grave.
Complex Legacy of Edgar Lungu
- Edgar Lungu's legacy is mixed, praised for infrastructure but criticized for poor democratic governance.
- This complexity shapes how his death and funeral are politically charged events in Zambia.
Tense Rivalry Between Zambian Presidents
- Lungu and current president Hakainde Hichilema battled in three heated presidential elections with deep animosity.
- Hichilema was even arrested on treason charges after a minor motorcade incident, illustrating their bitter rivalry.