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Fidelis Munyoro Chief Court Reporter

LAWYERS must maintain high ethical standards and serve the interest of society without bias and prejudice, a Cabinet minister has said, cautioning men and women in the legal profession against indiscipline.

The level of indiscipline among both young and senior lawyers was now alarming and had become a cause for concern in the legal profession given the number of complaints lodged with the lawyers’ regulatory body, the Law Society of Zimbabwe.

Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi implored the lawyers to shun corruption and stick to the tenets and age old values of the profession.

Speaking at the launch of the book by veteran lawyer Mr Lloyd Mhishi, “Being the Best Lawyer”, last Friday, the minister described the book as a beacon of guidance for aspiring lawyers and legal practitioners alike.

The lessons in the book against corruption and criminal conduct on the part of all in the legal profession, the minister said, resonated well with the stance espoused by President Mnangagwa, a message which everyone, not just the lawyers, must read and understand.

The book summed up the wisdom gained through years of experience, offering insights that extend beyond the precincts of the courtroom. 

“This book is a testament to the author’s passion for the law and his commitment to excellence. It is a testament to the devotion of a selfless person who is eager to share with others lessons learnt over time on how to have true success as a lawyer.” 

 The minister noted that in his book, Mr Mhishi probed into the ethical responsibilities that came with the legal professions, and explored the traits and qualities that defined exceptional lawyers: integrity, compassion, empathy, and relentless pursuit of justice.

“The book reminds us that being a lawyer is not simply a profession. It is a vocation that requires unwavering dedication, continuous learning and a deep understanding of the impact our actions can have on individuals and society as a whole,” he said. 

Members of the legal fraternity, judges and captains of industry witnessed the book launch and hailed Mr Mhishi for sharing his wisdom and experiences through the book.

Said Professor Lovemore Madhuku: “It is an excellent book written in very simple but attractive language. I am very proud of the fact that the book is a much cherished contribution by Zimbabweans to the fast growing body of worldwide jurisprudence.”

Mr Mhishi’s classmate at the law school, Mr Vote Muza, said the book was well authored that he found it deeply insightful to law students, junior and senior lawyers.

“It defines the path to successful law careers, and how to safeguard such success against a background of prevalent corruption,” he said.

Another lawyer, Advocate Taona Sibanda said Mr Mhishi had always had a gift of simplifying things both as a lecturer and as a leader in the legal profession.

“In his new book he endeavours to break down the molecules of becoming the best lawyer,” he said.

“Sometimes in life and in law we fail because we lack sound mentorship. This piece of literature lively covers that gap in typical Lloyd Mhishi simplicity.”

Former Sunday Mail deputy editor Munyaradzi Huni who has just finished reading the book said it came at the right time when the legal profession is grappling with corruption issues.

“The book is well written, for all students, lawyers already in practice will benefit a lot from the book.”

After the launch an auction was conducted and Dr Phillip Chiyangwa was the highest bidder, buying a copy for US$1 100. He beat Homelux chief executive officer Mr Justin Machibaya who bought his for US$1 050.