daniel chigunwe
Fidelis Munyoro
Chief Court Reporter
HIGH Court judge Justice Tawanda Chitapi has emphasised the critical duty of lawyers to uphold the highest ethical standards, expressing alarm over the rising levels of indiscipline within the legal profession.
The judge’s remarks reflect growing concerns about the erosion of professional ethics, which form the bedrock of the legal field by providing a framework of principles and guidelines that govern the conduct of legal practitioners.
The issue has taken centre stage, with numerous complaints being lodged against lawyers with the Law Society of Zimbabwe, the regulatory body for the profession.
This trend threatens to undermine both the reputation of the legal community and public confidence in the justice system.
Addressing the matter during the swearing-in of four newly registered lawyers— Messrs Brian Kashangura, Ngonidzashe Chiware, Keisha Hunda, and Kudakwashe Nhari—Justice Chitapi underscored the importance of discipline and ethical conduct.
Mr Kashangura’s story stood out as testament to resilience and determination.
Living with a disability, he garnered national attention during his graduation last year when he was personally capped by President Mnangagwa at the University of Zimbabwe.
Mr Kashangura earned a Bachelor of Laws Honours (LLBS) degree and was also recognised for his achievements as a person living with a disability.
A seasoned professional with a 31-year track record as a criminal investigator, Mr Kashangura has defied the odds throughout his academic and professional journey.
His educational achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration Honours in Police and Security Studies from Bindura University of Science Education in 2016 and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Zimbabwe in 2019. His inspiring journey highlights the potential for excellence, even in the face of adversity.
Justice Chitapi used the occasion to remind the new lawyers of the solemn oaths they had taken, urging them to uphold the law and adhere to the professional standards expected of legal practitioners.
“As members of the legal profession, we expect you to abide by the oaths you have taken. If you violate them, you will face the full force of the law,” the judge said, adding that the profession demands humility, discipline, and unwavering ethical conduct.
He cautioned the new lawyers against finding themselves on the wrong side of the law, highlighting the growing number of disciplinary cases involving legal practitioners.
“Avoid, at all costs, appearing here (High Court) in a different capacity—as respondents in disciplinary proceedings brought against you by the Law Society. As I showed you in my chambers, there are numerous files of lawyers facing charges for breaches of professional conduct.”
Justice Chitapi stressed that the courts take violations of the law by lawyers with utmost seriousness, noting that legal professionals are expected to be custodians of the law and role models for society.
Professionalism, he said, is a cornerstone of legal ethics, requiring practitioners to act with diligence, humility, and respect for the legal system.
Lawyers have a duty to prioritise their clients’ best interests while adhering to the rules and norms of the profession.
These principles are designed to promote integrity, competence, and transparency within the legal community.
Justice Chitapi emphasised that honesty and truthfulness are non-negotiable traits for lawyers, who must avoid any form of deceit, fraud, or misrepresentation, as such actions can erode public trust in the justice system.
Competence, he noted, is equally vital. Lawyers are obligated to provide skilled and informed representation to their clients, ensuring that their actions reflect the highest standards of professionalism.
Justice Chitapi’s call to action serves as a reminder of the immense responsibility borne by those who choose to enter the legal profession and the critical role they play in safeguarding the integrity of the justice system.
Online Reporter