President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has paid tribute to the late James Mbowe Nyondo, National Salvation Front (NASAF) President.

Nyondo, 47 died on Friday at Steve Boko Hospital in South Africa after battling with lung cancer.

In statement from the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) made available to FaceofMalawi signed by Presidential Press Secretary Gerald Viola, Mutharika said he has learnt with shock with the death of Nyondo.

Mutharika said James Nyondo was one of the finest Malawi politicians who loved his country and the people of Malawi.

Mutharika a describes Mr Nyondo as someone who demonstrated courage and patriotism during the two times he stood for Presidency in 2009 and in the last 2014 elections and that Malawi shall never find a replacement of a hardworking, dedicated, obedient, peace loving and an intelligent person- James Nyondo.

On her part, Former President Dr. Joyce Banda said she is deeply shocked with the untimely death of James Nyondo.

“Before he died, I interacted with the late Nyondo on several occasions. I found him to be a young, selfless, idealistic and highly intelligent politician.,” said Banda.

Nyondo is survived by a wife and three children.