Lewis Uriri rejected US$350,000 in gifts from Wicknell Chivayo, citing the need to protect his independence as a lawyer. The package covered a US$250,000 Range Rover Sport Autobiography, US$50,000 for fuel, and another US$50,000 intended for his wife.
Uriri said Chivayo gave him no warning about the offer. Their last conversation, he added, took place in June 2024, while earlier legal work had already been paid in full. And with no current professional relationship between them, he viewed the benefits as capable of raising questions about financial obligation.
Professional conduct rules shaped the call. Uriri pointed to Zimbabwean legal standards and international principles requiring lawyers to keep their judgment independent and protect public trust.
Chivayo had praised Uriri’s past representation and described him as highly effective in court. Mrs Uriri, also a lawyer, received praise for contributing to legal work at home. Uriri said both would decline every part of the package.
Uriri said Chivayo gave him no warning about the offer. Their last conversation, he added, took place in June 2024, while earlier legal work had already been paid in full. And with no current professional relationship between them, he viewed the benefits as capable of raising questions about financial obligation.
Professional conduct rules shaped the call. Uriri pointed to Zimbabwean legal standards and international principles requiring lawyers to keep their judgment independent and protect public trust.
Chivayo had praised Uriri’s past representation and described him as highly effective in court. Mrs Uriri, also a lawyer, received praise for contributing to legal work at home. Uriri said both would decline every part of the package.
