The Patriotic Front government has backpedaled on its earlier intention to bury former defence minister Benjamin Yorum Mwila commonly known as BY at Embassy Park and opted to bury him at the Leopards Hill Memorial Park after his family opposed what it dimmed “attempts to gain political mileage.”
President Michael Sata, who persecuted Mwila in his illness leading to his death, had planned a lavish send off which included offering a space for the veteran politician at a presidential burial site.
The idea, according to family members, was pull off some praise that he had buried Mwila with honour when he allegedly fast-tracked his death through political persecution. The programme has since been scaled down to meet the family’s wish.
And fourth Republican President Rupiah Banda was among mourners that turned up at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport to receive the body of Mwila.
Secretary to the cabinet Rowland Msiska said the body viewing will not be conducted at Mulungushi International Conference Centre but will be at the deceased’s Chudleigh House on 9721 Reserve Road.
The government had announced that Mwila would be buried at the Embassy Park that is reserved for former Heads of State.
In further scaled down changes the body has been taken to Ideal Funeral Parlour with public body viewing set for tomorrow at the late Mwila’s house.
Meanwhile, Banda, Heritage Party president General Godfrey Miyanda and MMD leader Nevers Mumba were among the high profile personalities that welcomed the body at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.
The former Defence Minister and twice presidential elections contestant Mwila will be laid to rest on Thursday.
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