Zambia says it has custody of former president's body in dispute with family

Associated Press Associated Press

The Zambian government claims it has taken custody of former President Edgar Lungu's body in a monthslong and macabre dispute with his family over where he should be buried.

Lungu died last June in South Africa at the age of 68.

The dispute revolves around Lungu's bitter political rivalry with current Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.

Hichilema's government says Lungu should be buried at home in a state funeral.

Lungu's family says one of his last wishes was that Hichilema should not go anywhere near his body or preside over his funeral.

The court battle interrupted the family's planned funeral for Lungu in South Africa last year.

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