Zambia's government takes possession of ex-president's body in repatriation row

The Zambian government has said it has taken possession of the body of former president Edgar Lungu - who died in South Africa 10 months ago - against the wishes of the family. It is the latest episode in a row over what should happen to his remains following a long-standing feud between Lungu and his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema. The go...

The Zambian government has said it has taken possession of the body of former president Edgar Lungu - who died in South Africa 10 months ago - against the wishes of the family.

It is the latest episode in a row over what should happen to his remains following a long-standing feud between Lungu and his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema.

The government has maintained that as a former head of state he should be honoured in the country and buried alongside his predecessors in the special presidential burial ground in the capital, Lusaka.

But Lungu's family wanted a private burial after negotiations with the government over the funeral arrangements broke down.