00:00In Zambia, a breakthrough may be near as the government and the family of late former president Edgar Lungu begin mediated talks to resolve a long-standing standoff over his funeral arrangements.
00:13In a joint statement, both sides confirm they've agreed to a mediation process aimed at balancing state protocols with the family's personal wishes and preserving the dignity of the late president.
00:24A dispute began in June after Lungu's death in South Africa. His family initially sought a private burial abroad, citing emotional strain and concerns over political interference, particularly from President Haen Ginde Inshilema.
00:40But the government insisted on a state funeral in Lusaka as a standard for former heads of state.
00:46A legal battle followed and South African courts eventually ruled for Lungu's remains to be repatriated to Zambia.
00:52The three-month deadlock has stirred political tension.
00:55With mediators in place, both parties have pledged to prioritise unity, healing and respect for Lungu's legacy.
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