Advocate Thabani Mpofu hails Gwaunza, Garwe appointments

Prominent Zimbabwean lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu has welcomed President Emmerson Mnangagwa's appointment of Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza as Chief Justice and Justice Paddington Garwe as her deputy, following the retirement of former Chief Justice Luke Malaba.

In a statement posted on social media, Mpofu described both senior judges as exceptional jurists with long-standing contributions to Zimbabwe's legal system and international jurisprudence.

"As jurists, both the appointed Chief Justice Gwaunza and Deputy Chief Justice Garwe are without equal," Mpofu wrote.

He praised Chief Justice Gwaunza as a pioneering figure in the judiciary who has represented Zimbabwe in international tribunals with distinction.

"Chief Justice Gwaunza has long been a trailblazer and has represented the country in international tribunals with distinction. She is a worthy credit to the girl child and an inspiration to many," he said.

Mpofu also commended Deputy Chief Justice Garwe, describing him as a leading legal thinker whose judgments have significantly influenced Zimbabwean jurisprudence.

"Deputy Chief Justice Garwe has been a leading jurisprudential thinker and has, in many significant respects, shaped the direction of our law," he said. "It is rare that I prepare heads of argument without citing at least one of his authorities."

He concluded by congratulating both appointees, wishing them success in their new roles at the apex of the judiciary.