Harare — DEPUTY Minister of Local Government, Public Works and Urban Development, Cde Morris Sakabuya, yesterday challenged church leaders to abide by their calling to minister the Word of God to uphold peace and tranquillity in the country.

Speaking at a church service held for Dr Watson Mukwakwami the former president of the United Church of Christ in Zimbabwe who died on Sunday in Harare yesterday, Cde Sakabuya said church leaders should live an honest and professional life in church ministering.

"As church leaders, you must play pivotal roles in playing advisory roles both morally and spiritually to the nation.

"Genuine calling to church ministering always delivers the nation from negative developments," Cde Sakabuya said.

He described the late theologian as an undisputed peacemaker who played an important role during his time as the head of Christian denominations.

"He played a prophetic role when his efforts culminated in the signing of the December 22 Unity Accord in 1987.

"He visited the late Dr Nkomo at his Pelandaba home and the then Prime Minister Cde Robert Mugabe at State House," he said.

Cde Sakabuya said church leaders should also follow in the footsteps of Rev Mukwakwami who articulated well in bringing order, peace and tranquility in the country.

Current UCCZ president, Reverend Edward Matuvhunye said the church had been robbed of a true spiritual member whose works would always be remembered.

NCA chairman Dr Lovemore Madhuku who is also the church's vice national moderator said the late Rev Mukwakwami was a pillar of inspiration given the squabbles that rocked the church this year over mass prayers.

He said Rev Mukwakwami managed to bring the two disputed sides together as he denounced public fighting in the Press.

Rev Mukwakwami is survived by five children and 16 grandchildren.

He will be buried at Chipangara Village in Chipinge today.