Simon Zukas, one of Zambia’s independence heroes and most admired figures, has died aged 96.

He passed away at 21:05 pm.

Low-key and lacking in self-interest, Zukas embodied a genuine commitment to progress, democracy and equality.

Zukas was one of the proponents of the reintroduction of multi-party politics and held several positions in the MMD government.

His family state that funeral arrangements will be announced later.