A South African appeals court has ruled that the body of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu can be buried in South Africa, overriding a demand from the Zambian government. Lungu died in June of last year while seeking medical treatment in South Africa, and his family wished for him to be buried there. Zambia requested his remains be repatriated for burial at the Embassy Memorial Park in Lusaka, the traditional resting place for Zambian presidents. This request stemmed, in part, from a desire to prevent his political rival, current President Hakainde Hichilema, from having a role in the funeral. An initial court ruling favored Zambia, but this decision was overturned on appeal, citing South African law which prioritizes the wishes of the family. The South African government had previously indicated it would respect the family’s wishes, despite considering a state funeral more appropriate. Zambia has stated it will not further appeal the decision, ending the year-long dispute.