By Tarisai Machakaire
A much-respected and long-standing Harare provincial magistrate last week retired from the courts after years of distinguished service.
Vakayi Chikwekwe has taken up a job as Gweru City Council’s new chamber secretary.
Chikwekwe is credited with being a key figure in ensuring the survival of the lower courts and clearing a huge backlog of cases.
He was the longest serving provincial magistrate for Harare after spending more than three years in that office.
Chief magistrate Mishrod Guvamombe told a farewell gathering convened at Harare Magistrates’ Courts on Friday: “I am truly heartbroken to lose Chikwekwe. He was a corner pillar in my operations.
“When I brought him to Harare, I looked at his stature and was sceptical that he would manage the mammoth task of running Harare province as it is by far the busiest operation in Judicial Service Commission.
“…I tell you this that if Harare coughs, the whole department catches the flu but Chikwekwe acquainted himself very well.”
According to Guvamombe, by November 16 this year, Harare received 73 277 cases and completed 73 216.
“This was not a small feat by any standard. It is what Chikwekwe superintendent on. The only consolation we get is from knowing that the country will still benefit from his expertise in the Local Government ministry.”
Senior public prosecutor Michael Reza said Chikwekwe related very well with his subordinates during his time of service.
“Your appointment means that there is something very good in what you do that other bodies would also want to experience,” Reza said.
Harare magistrate Vongai Muchuchuti, now the acting head, said: “He was such a passionate man and it was a pleasure to work with him. Indeed, it is a loss on our department and a gain for local government.”
Chikwekwe said: “When I joined this profession, things were not all rosy and the terrain was tough at times. I have learnt a lot and cannot express how grateful I am for the cooperation of every one of you.
“I am into writing as I am in academia. My publications are a contribution into the legal field.
“On the other hand I could say it’s a hobby,” said Chikwekwe holding his latest publication — An introduction to the legal system of Zimbabwe.
Chikwekwe has two other pending publications — Principles of Family Law which he co-authored with Silvia Chirawu and A Guide to the Law of Evidence in Zimbabwe. Daily News
Discover more from Nehanda Radio
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
