Online Reporter
Online Reporter
CHIEF Justice Luke Malaba has extended his condolences to the family of the country’s first female judge Justice Mavis Dorothy Gibson (née Gumede) following her death in the United Kingdom.
Justice Gibson died on Wednesday in London following a long battle with cancer.
She was 85.
In a statement on Friday, Chief Justice Malaba who also chairs the Judicial Services Commission (JSC), described Justice Gibson as a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on Zimbabwe’s legal system.
“Justice Gibson dedicated her esteemed career to the pursuit of justice. She was known for her unwavering commitment to fairness and equity in the courtroom. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” he said.
Justice Gibson was appointed as a judge of the Administrative Court on 1 March 1984 before being elevated to the High Court bench on 15 May of the same year. Her appointment broke barriers at a time when the country was still forging a new identity after independence and she remained on the bench until her resignation on 31 March 1996.
Following her departure from the country’s judiciary, she continued her service to justice across borders, joining the Judiciary of Namibia where she served until her retirement in 2001. She later relocated to England, where she lived until her death.
Burial arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
