Former minister Austin Liato dies at 60
Former Cabinet Minister and Independent parliamentary candidate for Nkeyema Constituency, Austin Chisangu Liato, has died at the age of 60, ending a political career that spanned more than two decades in Zambia’s public service.
Nkeyema, 7 August – Liato, who served as Member of Parliament for Kaoma Central from 2002 to 2011, was widely recognised for his contributions to government and Parliament. He was elected to the National Assembly following the 2001 general elections and went on to hold several senior positions in government.
During his tenure, he served as Deputy Minister of Energy, Minister for Lusaka Province, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Security, and later as Minister of Labour and Social Security. He also represented Zambia in the Pan-African Parliament, where he contributed to legislative discussions on regional and continental issues.
Despite leaving Parliament in 2011, Liato remained actively involved in national politics. Ahead of the 2026 general elections, he had filed in as an Independent candidate for Nkeyema Constituency, seeking a return to Parliament with a pledge to continue serving the people.
News of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from politicians, supporters and members of the public, many describing him as a dedicated public servant whose commitment to national development remained unwavering throughout his career.
His passing has been described as a significant loss to his family, the people of Nkeyema, his supporters and the nation.
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