The presidential feud that even death couldn't end
Summary
President Hakainde Hichilema and his predecessor Edgar Lungu were involved in a long-standing conflict, even after Lungu's death on June 5th. The feud affected state funeral plans for Lungu, leading to no visiting dignitaries at his planned service, and highlighted deep political divisions in Zambia.Key Facts
- Hakainde Hichilema defeated Edgar Lungu in the 2021 presidential election.
- Edgar Lungu's family stated that one of his last wishes was to keep Hichilema away from his body.
- A state funeral for Lungu was planned, but there will be no visiting dignitaries, and the venue remains unused.
- Lungu's daughter announced his death on Facebook, asking for national unity.
- Hichilema responded with a delayed message, calling for peace and togetherness.
- Hichilema was arrested 17 times during Lungu's presidency, including a detention in 2017 on treason charges, which were later dropped.
- Tensions between Hichilema's and Lungu's parties remain high, impacting national politics.
- Hichilema spent over 100 days in detention in 2017, blaming Lungu personally for his imprisonment.
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