Historic Moment As Justice Gwaunza Breaks Gender Barrier In Judiciary

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially appointed Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza as the new Chief Justice of the Republic of Zimbabwe, marking a historic milestone in the country’s judicial system.

Justice Gwaunza becomes the first woman in Zimbabwe’s history to hold the prestigious position, taking over from Justice Luke Malaba, whose tenure came to an end yesterday after a distinguished 45-year career in the judiciary.

Announcing the appointments, President Mnangagwa said Justice Gwaunza assumes leadership of the Judiciary with immediate effect after serving with distinction as Deputy Chief Justice since 2018.

“Today, she breaks new ground as the first female Chief Justice in the history of Zimbabwe,” said the President.

The Head of State also announced the appointment of Justice Paddington Garwe as the new Deputy Chief Justice.

President Mnangagwa said the appointments were made in accordance with Section 180(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and reflect Government’s confidence in the two senior judges’ experience, professionalism and commitment to justice.

“Both appointments bring unparalleled legal expertise and decades of judicial experience to our apex courts,” he said.

Justice Gwaunza is widely respected within legal circles for her extensive judicial experience and contribution to Zimbabwe’s legal system over several decades. Her elevation to the country’s top judicial office is being viewed as a landmark achievement for gender representation within the judiciary and public institutions.

Justice Garwe, who now assumes the role of Deputy Chief Justice, also brings vast legal expertise and judicial experience to the Supreme and Constitutional Courts.

The appointments usher in a new leadership era for Zimbabwe’s justice delivery system following the retirement of Chief Justice Malaba, who served in various judicial capacities over four decades.

President Mnangagwa called on Zimbabweans to congratulate the newly appointed judicial leaders as they take up their new responsibilities.

“Let us congratulate Justice Gwaunza and Justice Garwe as they lead our justice delivery system forward,” he said.