As the Pretoria High Court prepares to decide on the fate of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu’s remains, Dr Charles Sinkala sheds light on why this issue holds deep significance. The court is tasked with ruling whether Lungu should be repatriated to Zambia for a state funeral or laid to rest privately by his family in South Africa.
Dr Sinkala emphasizes that the burial decision transcends personal wishes—it touches on national pride, diplomatic ties, and cultural customs. For Zambia, a former head of state’s funeral is a moment of collective mourning and recognition of service. On the other hand, the family’s preference for a private burial abroad reflects personal grief and considerations that complicate the matter.
The legal ruling will set an important precedent not just for cross-border repatriations but also for balancing state protocol with family rights. This case highlights the sensitive intersection of law, diplomacy, and cultural tradition in the modern African context.
