Bulawayo – A cloud of sorrow has descended upon the legal fraternity in Zimbabwe following the sudden death of Labour Court judge, Justice Mercy Moya-Matshanga. The esteemed jurist, known for her dedication to upholding justice and her unwavering commitment to the law, collapsed at her home and passed away on Wednesday morning at Corporate 24 Hospital in Bulawayo. She was 61.
The news of her passing sent shockwaves through the legal community, particularly in Bulawayo, where she was a prominent figure. Just hours before her sudden demise, Justice Moya-Matshanga had presided over hearings at the Labour Court, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to her duties despite the tragedy that was to unfold.
“It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing on of Honourable Justice Moya-Matshanga J,” the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) said in a statement. “We are informed that she collapsed at home and died this morning at Corporate 24 Hospital in Bulawayo.”
Lawyers who had appeared before Justice Moya-Matshanga on Tuesday were stunned by the news of her passing. “She was fit enough to conduct hearings just a day earlier,” one lawyer told ZimLive, his voice heavy with grief. “We logged into the JSC’s online portal for hearings to begin, and then the news came that the judge had died. It’s simply unbelievable.”
Born on February 12, 1963, in Matobo, Justice Moya-Matshanga’s life was dedicated to the pursuit of justice. She graduated with a law degree from the University of Zimbabwe in 1988 and joined the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs as a public prosecutor in 1989. Her dedication to her work saw her rise through the ranks, becoming a Chief Law Officer in 2001. Five years later, in 2006, she was appointed as a judge of the Labour Court, a position she held until her untimely death.
Justice Moya-Matshanga’s 18-year tenure on the bench was marked by her fairness, impartiality, and unwavering commitment to upholding the law. She was highly respected by her colleagues, lawyers, and litigants alike, earning a reputation for her sharp intellect, her compassionate approach to cases, and her dedication to ensuring that justice prevailed.
Her passing leaves a void in the legal landscape of Zimbabwe. She was a respected voice, a champion for fairness, and a role model for aspiring legal professionals. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of lawyers and judges to strive for justice and to uphold the highest standards of integrity in their profession.
Mourners are gathered at Number 5 David Bernard, Waterford suburb in Bulawayo, to pay their respects to the late judge. Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
