Edgar Lungu, the former President of Zambia who served from 2015 to 2021, has died at the age of 68. Although he cannot run in the upcoming election, he still holds significant influence in Zambian politics. His passing has led to disputes involving his family, the government, and his political party, the Patriotic Front (PF), about how to appropriately honor him.

The government has announced a state funeral and chosen a lodge in Lusaka as the site for mourning. However, the PF has rejected this plan, urging mourners to gather at their headquarters instead. Lungu's family supports the state funeral but insists on their right to pick the officiant, according to their lawyer, Makebi Zulu.

There is still confusion around the return of Lungu's remains, but discussions with the government are ongoing. This situation highlights the strained relationship between Lungu and President Hakainde Hichilema, who have been political rivals for years. In 2017, during Lungu's presidency, Hichilema was imprisoned for treason-related charges, which created more tension. Four years later, Hichilema defeated Lungu in the presidential elections after multiple attempts. Recently, Lungu alleged that Hichilema's government is targeting him and other PF supporters.

This situation draws parallels to past leadership disputes in Zambia. For instance, when Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia's first post-independence president, died, his family wished for him to be buried with his wife, but the government chose a different location. Similar controversies arose after the death of Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe, whose family refused to bury him at the national Heroes' Acre.

Even in death, political divisions can reignite disputes, turning a moment of mourning into a cause of conflict. The discussions surrounding Lungu's funeral risk overshadowing the respect owed to him as a former president. It is vital to maintain focus on the human aspects of grief rather than politicize his death. Zambians must seek common ground and mutual respect to foster healing and reconciliation instead of allowing the burial arrangements to amplify existing divisions. Ultimately, Lungu's funeral should be an opportunity for national unity, moving away from divisive debates toward respectful commemoration of his life and leadership.