President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza as Zimbabwe’s new Chief Justice, making her the first woman to hold the country’s top judicial office.
Justice Gwaunza officially assumes the role today, succeeding Justice Luke Malaba, who retired on Thursday after a judicial career spanning 45 years.
Prior to her appointment, Justice Gwaunza served as Deputy Chief Justice, a position she had held since March 2018. Her appointment was confirmed yesterday in a statement issued by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Martin Rushwaya, in accordance with Section 180(2) of the Constitution.
The statement noted that Justice Gwaunza was suitably qualified for the position because of her extensive experience within the judiciary and her service in senior judicial offices.
At the same time, Justice Paddington Garwe was appointed Deputy Chief Justice. Justice Garwe has served on the Constitutional Court since May 2021 and previously held positions as Judge President of the High Court and Supreme Court judge.
The appointments follow the retirement of Justice Malaba, who stepped down after reaching the constitutional retirement age of 75, as provided under Section 186(1) of the Constitution.
Yesterday, members of the judiciary, legal practitioners and Government officials gathered at the Constitutional Court in Harare for a special session held in honour of Justice Malaba’s retirement. His legal career began in the magistracy before he rose through the ranks to become the country’s top judge and head of the Judiciary.
During his tenure as Chief Justice, Justice Malaba oversaw several constitutional matters and spearheaded reforms within the court system.
Speaking at a farewell dinner in Harare last night, Acting President Kembo Mohadi praised Justice Malaba for guiding the judiciary through a period of significant transformation over the past decade.
Acting President Mohadi said Justice Malaba’s leadership strengthened the justice system and helped maintain confidence in the courts during challenging times. He described justice delivery as a key pillar in national development and commended the retired Chief Justice for his discipline, patience and commitment to institutional reform.
