Former Zambian president Edgar Lungu left strict instructions that should be honoured during his burial ceremony.

According to the family spokesperson, Lungu gave strict orders that his successor, who is the current Zambian president, Hakainde Hichilema, should not be allowed anywhere close to his body.

TVC reported that the news is the latest development in the bitter feud over the funeral plans of the late Lungu.

The Zambian government was expected to transport Lungu's body from South Africa on Wednesday, June 11, but failed to do so.

This was attributed to a longstanding dispute between Lungu's family and his political party, the Patriotic Front, over funeral arrangements.

The late Lungu and Hichilema were political rivals for a long period. Hichilema defeated Lungu in the 2021 General Election after failing in his previous five attempts.

While addressing the people of Zambia on Thursday evening, June 12, the president did not publicly announce Lungu's last wishes but focused on calling for peace, love and unity.

This comes approximately a week after Lungu passed away while undergoing specialised treatment in South Africa. Lungu died at the age of 68.

The late served as Zambia's president for a period of six years from 2015 to 2021. He took over power following the death of his predecessor, Michael Sata.

He lost to Hichilema in 2021, but he did not give up. He made a comeback in 2023, looking to fight for the highly coveted seat.

However, his dream of returning to the presidency was cut short after Zambia's constitutional court declared him ineligible to contest for another term.

Following Lungu's death, various leaders, including President William Ruto, mourned him in heartfelt tributes

In a condolence message through his official social media platforms, Ruto sympathised with the family of Lungu and the people of Zambia.

He described Lungu as a progressive and outstanding leader who once served Zambians with commitment and zeal.

Tasila Lungu, who also serves as a Member of Parliament in Zambia, took to her pages to mourn her father's death.

She further confirmed that her father had been undergoing treatment in South Africa. She added that his father's medical journey had been handled with privacy and dignity.

Just three days before death, the former politician had celebrated his wife on her birthday.

In an emotional message, Lungu called his wife his babe and expressed gratitude that he was both his close confidante and life partner.

He further asked netizens to join him in celebrating his beloved wife, whom he termed as his rock and confidant.

Source: TUKO.co.ke