Former Zambian president Lungu to be buried in SA after tensions between family & government

JOHANNESBURG - Former president of Zambia Edgar Lungu's funeral will be held in South Africa.  

His family revealed that he will be laid to rest in Johannesburg.  

It's the first time a former head of state of another country will be buried in South Africa.

The repatriation process of Lungu's remains was halted earlier this week. 

His body was meant to be returned to Lusaka from Lanseria airport on Tuesday.  

His family said this was due to the continued disagreements with the Zambian government.  

READ: Repatriation of former Zambian statesman Lungu's remains from SA halted

They've accused President Hakainde Hichilema's administration of undermining the agreements reached surrounding Lungu's death. 

He died in a Pretoria hospital earlier this month after suffering a long illness.  

Lungu's family has expressed their appreciation to the South African government for honouring their request to hold a private funeral in the country.