Edgar Lungu: Zambia's ex-president and the undignified row over his body

Edgar Lungu, who died in June, is yet to be buried - the debate over what next exposes deep divisions.

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The 68-year-old died two months ago in South Africa where he was being treated for an undisclosed illness.

In the latest episode of what is now a full-blown saga, a Pretoria court ruled in the Zambian government's favour, saying that in the public interest, Lungu's remains can be repatriated and given a state funeral, against the wishes of the family.

The decision triggered celebrations among some governing party supporters, who shared Facebook posts with the phrase: "It's coming home," as if Zambia had won a trophy.

An undignified response, perhaps, but it has come to symbolise how divisive and partisan this has become.