LUSAKA - Former Cabinet Minister and Independent parliamentary candidate for Nkeyema Constituency, Austin Chisangu Liato, has died at the age of 60.
Mr. Liato’s death brings to an end a long career in Zambian politics and public service spanning more than two decades.
He served as Member of Parliament for Kaoma Central from 2002 to 2011 after winning the constituency in the 2001 General Election.
During his political career, Mr. Liato held several senior government positions, including Deputy Minister of Energy, Minister for Lusaka Province, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Security, and Minister of Labour and Social Security.
He also represented Zambia in the Pan-African Parliament, where he participated in continental legislative affairs.
Despite leaving Parliament, Mr. Liato remained active in public life and entered the 2026 General Election as an Independent candidate for Nkeyema Constituency, expressing his desire to continue serving the people.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across the political spectrum, with many remembering Mr. Liato as a committed public servant whose career was defined by long-standing involvement in national politics and government.
His death has been described as a significant loss to his family, supporters, the people of Nkeyema, and the nation at large.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
Source: HOT FM