Condolence pours in for passed on lawyer

Condolences have continued to pour in for the deceased lawyer Joseph James who passed on on June 28, 2015.

Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) Communications officer Kumbirai Mafunda said ZLHR has learned with deep sadness of the profound loss of Joseph James in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe on Sunday 28 June 2015.

"Jumbo" - as Joseph James was affectionately called - was a principled member of the legal profession in Zimbabwe, and a deeply respected past president of the Law Society of Zimbabwe between 2005 and 2008," he said.

"This was a tumultuous period for the legal profession and for the rule of law in the country. Throughout his tenure, he acquitted himself with the highest levels of fearlessness, professionalism and commitment to protecting the independence and integrity of the legal profession and speaking truth to power."

He said respected and loved by his peers both within the profession and on the bench, Jumbo also endeared himself to new generations of lawyers, and was always ready and willing to mentor and support them.

"It is no surprise that his commitment to the profession and to justice for all, earned him recognition when he was honoured with the Walter Kamba Rule of Law Award in 2012," said Mafunda.

"Jumbo was a dearly loved, active and loyal senior member of ZLHR. His advice, support and learned counsel were always sought out and will be treasured for years to come. His loss will leave a marked void in the organisation and in our hearts."

He said the ZLHR Board, membership, management and secretariat extend their deepest condolences to Jumbo's family and relatives; his partners, colleagues and staff at the firm of James Moyo-Majwabu and Nyoni, and his friends both within and outside the legal community.

"He will be greatly and deeply missed," said Mafunda. "May His Dear Soul Rest in Eternal Peace."