Vusumuzi Dube
Peter Matika, [email protected]
FOR many children, a parent’s workplace is simply a place they occasionally visit.
For Mr Molisa Christopher Cheda, however, the story unfolded differently.
The world of law was something he grew up breathing, in the conversations at home, in the values that shaped family life and, in the example, set by his father, retired High Court judge, Justice Maphios Cheda.
Now at 39, Molisa has stepped into that same world, officially registering on Thursday last week as a legal practitioner in Zimbabwe, in a moment that carried not only personal triumph, but deep family meaning.
Justice Cheda is also younger brother to retired Supreme Court judge, Justice Misheck Cheda.
For his father, it was more than witnessing a professional achievement. It was watching a legacy continue.
There was visible pride in Justice Cheda’s voice as he reflected on seeing his son join the legal fraternity, a profession that defined much of his own life and public service.
“It is a profoundly humbling and gratifying experience. To see one’s child embrace the very profession that has defined one’s life is something that words can scarcely capture,” said Justice Cheda.
“It is not merely about following in my footsteps, but about upholding the values of integrity, diligence and service to the nation.”
The moment stirred memories of his own long journey through courtrooms, legal arguments and years on the High Court bench where he built a respected reputation for fairness and discipline.
But unlike many fathers who may push their children towards certain professions, Justice Cheda says he never imposed the legal path on his children.
He simply hoped one of them might one day choose it.
“As a father, you guide but never impose. However, I am delighted that Molisa found his own path leading to the law. It is a demanding profession that calls for resilience, ethical fortitude and a deep sense of responsibility,” said Justice Cheda.
For Molisa, growing up under the name of a respected judge could easily have been intimidating. Instead, it became a source of motivation.
He said watching his father’s commitment to justice planted a powerful seed.
“It has always been an honour to witness my father’s contribution to the justice system. His dedication and unwavering commitment to fairness inspired me to pursue law, not as an obligation, but as a calling,” said Molisa.
Behind the registration certificate lies years of determination, academic discipline and persistence.
Molisa said he journey demanded sacrifice, patience and a refusal to give up, as he pursued several academic qualifications before finally reaching the point where he could officially join the profession.
For him, the day was not simply about career recognition. It was the fulfilment of a dream built over many years.
“There is a profound sense of responsibility that comes with this profession. It is about serving people, defending rights and upholding the rule of law. I hope to make a meaningful contribution in that regard,” said Molisa.
Justice Cheda believes the legal profession tests not only intellect, but character.
He said success in law requires humility and continuous learning — qualities he believes his son possesses.
“I do not doubt that he will distinguish himself. The journey ahead is not without its challenges, but it is in those very challenges that character is forged,” said Justice Cheda.
The registration ceremony also marked a life-changing moment for several other new lawyers, each carrying their own story of sacrifice and ambition.
Among them was 25-year-old Nobuhle Ncube, whose smile reflected years of hard work finally rewarded.
“I wasn’t on an easy road, but I was always motivated. University was hard, but I soldiered. The long nights of studying and the long hours spent at the library helped me earn my degree in 2024,” she said.
“I am happy to be here today. I am now officially recognised as a member of the Law Society in Zimbabwe,” she said.
But for the Cheda family, the day carried a particularly emotional significance — one generation watching the next take its first official step into a profession that has long stood at the heart of their family identity.
Online Reporter