Mark Simuuwe, Media Director for the United Party for National Development (UPND), says government remains committed to ensuring that former President Edgar Lungu is accorded a befitting send-off in accordance with the law and national tradition.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka, Mr Simuuwe said the legal position regarding the burial site of a former Head of State is clear and has already been determined by the courts.
“From the time the court made its pronouncement, the position has been very clear. There is no court that has set aside that decision,” he said.
Mr Simuuwe explained that delays in proceeding with the burial have been caused by the former First Family, noting that several months have passed since the court delivered its ruling.
He stressed the importance of ending ongoing legal disputes and urged the former First Family to support the Attorney General’s position to allow the process to move forward in the national interest.
On allegations that the former president may have been poisoned, Mr Simuuwe said such claims should be handled through established legal channels to ensure due process is followed.
He also called for President Hakainde Hichilema not to be drawn into accusations arising from statements by former minister Katele Kalumba and others, emphasizing that the Head of State should not be subjected to unsubstantiated claims or political rhetoric.
Mr Simuuwe added that government has extended an olive branch for dialogue on matters currently before the courts and remains open to engagement to bring closure to the issue in a dignified and lawful manner.
Why so much interest in someone you rebel a criminal. Why you want to waste you precious time on a criminal.
Shut up
He was the head of state and should be accorded a state funeral.