President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza as the new Chief Justice of Zimbabwe following the retirement of outgoing Chief Justice Luke Malaba.
The appointment was confirmed in a statement released on Thursday by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Martin Rushwaya, who said the decision takes effect on May 15, 2026.
“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 Zimbabwe with effect from 15 May 2026,” Rushwaya said.
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Justice Gwaunza assumes the top judicial position after serving as Deputy Chief Justice since March 29, 2018, a role in which she gained extensive leadership and judicial experience within the country’s court system.
According to the statement, her long service on the bench made her suitably qualified to lead the judiciary.
“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 added.
Her elevation marks a historic moment as she becomes Zimbabwe’s female Chief Justice, taking over leadership of the judiciary at a time when the justice delivery system is undergoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency and broadening access to justice across the country.
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