President Mnangagwa Appoints Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza As Chief Justice Of Zimbabwe

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza as Chief Justice, effective from 15 May 2026.

Justice Gwaunza has been Deputy Chief Justice since 29 March 2018. She takes over from Luke Malaba, who has retired after serving as Chief Justice since March 2017.

“His Excellency, the President, has, in terms of section 180 (2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, appointed Honourable Mrs Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Zimbabwe with effect from 15 May 2026,” said the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Martin Rushwaya.

“Honourable Mrs Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza is qualified for appointment, having served as the Deputy Chief Justice since 29 March 2018 and possessing extensive judicial experience.”

Rushwaya also announced that Justice Paddington Garwe will become Deputy Chief Justice from 15 May 2026.

“Honourable Mr Justice Paddington Garwe is qualified for appointment, having served as a judge of the Constitutional Court since 20 May 2021 and possessing extensive judicial experience,” Rushwaya said.

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