ZIMBABWEAN legal titan Sternford Moyo died a few days ago, leaving behind a rich legacy of excellent legal practice and leadership in the profession.
Moyo spoke eloquently about the importance of the rule of law in society.
The rule of law, which has been trashed in Zimbabwe, is a fundamental principle in a democratic society, ensuring that individuals, institutions, and government officials are subject to the law and held accountable for their actions to ensure equality and justice.
In a video clip that has gone viral — and you can watch it on The NewsHawks X account — Moyo succinctly elucidates what he envisions as the bedrock of rule of law.
“The rule of law demands a climate of legality. That’s one of the requirements — essential attributes — of a society in which the rule of law is observed. In an environment where court orders are from time to time disobeyed, you cannot say that the rule of law is being observed.”
Moyo was president of the International Bar Association (IBA) — the first person of African descent to lead the influential organisation.
In a stellar career spanning decades, Moyo distinguished himself as one of southern Africa’s leading corporate and commercial lawyers.
Moyo’s legal acumen propelled him to top positions in the profession, including president of the IBA from 2021 to 2022, after he previously served as co-chairperson of the Human Rights Institute and the African Regional Forum at the IBA.
In 2022, Moyo received the Freedom of the City of London honour for his commitment and contributions to the international legal sector.
He chaired countless company boards. In today’s Zimbabwe — a country where constitutional institutions such as the courts and Parliament are compromised — public confidence in the rule of law has been eroded.
As a country, we have a lot to learn from Moyo’s lifelong service to justice.
Many in our country feel helpless in the face of injustice.
It feels, at times, as though justice is only for the rich and the connected.
Who will defend the small guy?
The rule of law is important for Zimbabwe.
It is meant to ensure that all individuals, including government officials, are held accountable for their actions and are subject to fair and impartial treatment under the law.
It also helps to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens, ensuring that they are not arbitrarily infringed upon by the government or other individuals.
When the rule of law is wantonly violated — as this country’s history has shown — investors are spooked and the economy suffers.
Capital needs certainty and predictability. For the business sector to thrive, there is a need for a strong legal framework that enforces property rights, contracts, and commercial laws.
This is essential for attracting investment, fostering economic growth, and ensuring a thriving business environment. Zimbabwe has suffered immensely from disregarding the rule of law.
To promote good governance, protect individual rights and creating a conducive environment for sustainable development, this country must cultivate a culture of lawfulness.
