…. IN SOUTH AFRICA FOR HIS BURIAL
…as Foreign dignitaries and Zambians pay final respects
By Mwaka Mwansa
Thousands of Zambians and foreign dignitaries have travelled to South Africa to attend the burial of former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.
According to Patriotic Front (PF) Media Director Edwin Lifwekelo, mourners from all walks of life have converged in Johannesburg to honour the late president.
“It’s packed here in Johannesburg with all sorts of mourners. Thousands of Zambians have travelled to mourn our dear departed President,” Mr Lifwekelo said in an interview from South Africa.
He confirmed that foreign dignitaries have begun arriving, although the full list of attendees would only be known later.
Meanwhile, Mr Lifwekelo dismissed social media reports suggesting there would be no body viewing. He clarified that the Lungu family had given instructions for the public to view the body, although under strict conditions.
“There will be body viewing; it’s just propaganda. It will be strict, but it will happen,” he said. “If there are any changes, the public will be informed accordingly.”
The late President Lungu’s burial in South Africa has drawn mixed reactions from Zambians, with many expressing sadness that he will not be laid to rest in his homeland.
