By Prince Jamali

On of Malawi’s leading Church figures, Roman Catholic Archbishop Emeritus, James Chiona, who is highly credited for paying a pivotal role in transforming the country’s political landscape from one party rule to democracy has died. He was 80.

According to a statement from the Catholic Secretariat, Chiona, died peacefully at St. Mont fort Hospital in Nguludi, Chiradzulu on Monday, where he was taken ill over the weekend.

Meanwhile, the government of Malawi has expressed deep regret over the death of retired Roman Catholic Archbishop, James Chiona, describing him as a hero, who "rescued Malawians from the yoke of dictatorship."

Government Spokesperson, Patricia Kaliati, a devout Catholic herself, said the death of Archbishop James Chiona has robbed Malawi of one of the greatest figures in the Church and society.

"This man played a key role to make Malawi what it is today. He deserves a special place in the History of this country. He deserves a special honor and recognition for the work he did for this country. He risked the comfort of his life to fight for the voiceless. God should reward him accordingly. As government, we are saddened at the passing of this great man,” said, a grief-stricken Kaliati.

She said members of the clergy in the country should emulate the example set by the departed cleric in fighting for the good of the common people, who are weighed down by social ills, both in the Church and society.

"Members of the faith community must take the lead in clearing the society of social ills. They need to make the society a better place for all," said the controversial, Civic and Information Minister.

Chiona led the Church for over thirty years, taking over from a white man, Archbishop Emeritus, Theunisen.

In 1992, he courageously led a group of Catholic bishops in the country in transforming the country's political terrain, through the publication of a lentern letter, "Living Our Faith", which upon its release, shook the foundation of thirty years of Hastings Banda's ignoble rule.

He retired a few years ago after attaining the retirement age of 75. The Holy See appointed Archbishop Tarcisius Ziyaye to replace him. After his retirement' he has led a quiet life. He was at certain times seeing driving to a local parish in Chiradzulu to celebrate mass with his kinsmen.

According to sources within the Church, his health condition took a downturn over the years, reducing him to a solitary life at his retirement home in Limbe.

He retired peacefully at St. Mont fort Hospital in Nguludi, Chiradzulu, where he came from.

Meanwhile, messages of condolences are pouring in from across the country and beyond, describing him as an "icon" whose legacy, will be celebrated by many for many years to come.