Former Cabinet Minister Austin Liato dies at 60

AUSTIN Liato, former Cabinet Minister and Independent parliamentary candidate for Nkeyema Constituency, has died. He was 60. Liato’s death brings to an end a political career spanning more than two decades of public service. He served as Member of Parliament for Kaoma Central from 2002 to 2011 after winning the seat in the 2001 general

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AUSTIN Liato, former Cabinet Minister and Independent parliamentary candidate for Nkeyema Constituency, has died. He was 60.

Liato’s death brings to an end a political career spanning more than two decades of public service.

He served as Member of Parliament for Kaoma Central from 2002 to 2011 after winning the seat in the 2001 general elections.

During his time in government, Liato held several senior positions. They included Deputy Minister of Energy, Minister for Lusaka Province, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Security, and later Minister of Labour and Social Security.

He also represented Zambia in the Pan-African Parliament, where he contributed to continental legislative affairs.

Known for his decades of involvement in national politics, Liato remained active in public life. He had entered the 2026 general election race as an Independent candidate for Nkeyema Constituency, saying he wanted to continue serving the people.

Details on funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.

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