Sumaili described claims that the former Head of State is still living as inhumane and embarrassing, stating that his remains are still in a morgue in South Africa.
She said that nearly nine months after Lungu’s death, rumours have continued circulating suggesting that he did not die.
Appearing on Crown TV, Sumaili dismissed assertions from some sections of society that the former President is alive.
“Saying that nobody from the party saw the body is a total lie. I traveled to South Africa the day after he died and I’m speaking from my heart, truthfully that I have had an opportunity to see his body,” she said.
Sumaili warned that keeping the body unburied has serious implications for the nation, adding that, in her view, the country remains in mourning as long as the former President remains unburied.
She further called on President Hakainde Hichilema to allow the family to bury the former President according to their wishes.
“It is shameful, embarrassing, uncultural and unchristian to keep the body of a former President unburied for nine months. Let President Hichilema do the right thing and allow the family to bury their loved one according to his and their wishes,” she said.
Sumaili also condemned what she described as unfair treatment of the former First Family by the state, saying the family deserves space to mourn in a respectful manner.
“Asking certain individuals to stay away from the funeral is not keeping grudges, but simply fair that the wishes of the late are respected. It will not be the first time after all, we have seen this happen around the SADC region. What is pushing him to see the body? What does he want to see?” she said.
You sure you saw him? Others have seen him in Dubai.
Jokers have seen him in Dubai i suppose
Ati I saw…How come it took you so long to say it? was it clothed in his last suit? naked? you are not a bululu…who let you?????
Is there a time frame when she should say it? Why do you want to know who let her.
In any case, after change of government, you are coming back from that embassy
How are you allowed to see, and police are not allowed? Just allow proof then people will not speculate
Which law allows Police to see and to see for what? Please cite any provisions of the constitution that requires that
Do Police now have to see dead bodies, how many will they see across the country? There is a lost soul here asking if Police saw the body
This burial thing must be closed. I now hear some party will not take part in any commemorations or events until ECL is burried, this thing is now fanning divisions,