President Mnangagwa rewards former Chief Justice Malaba with agricultural package after retirement

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has presented recently retired Chief Justice Luke Malaba with an agricultural mechanisation package, less than a month after Malaba left office. Malaba, who retired on May 14 after reaching the mandatory retirement age, was received at State House on Friday. The package included a tractor, Nissan UD truck, boom sprayer, and planter. Mnangagwa stated on social media that the package was in recognition of Malaba’s decades of service to the judiciary, citing his outstanding service, unwavering commitment, and exemplary legal leadership. Malaba's tenure was marked by controversy, particularly following his 2021 term extension under Constitutional Amendment No. 2, which allowed judges to remain in office for up to five additional years beyond the previous retirement age of 70, subject to medical fitness and presidential approval. This amendment was introduced as Malaba approached retirement, leading to legal challenges from critics who argued it undermined judicial independence. The Constitutional Court ultimately upheld the amendment, allowing Malaba to remain in office until his retirement this year. During his time as Chief Justice, Malaba presided over several politically significant cases, including election disputes and constitutional matters. His retirement paved the way for Chief Justice Paddington Garwe to assume the country’s highest judicial office. This presentation of farming equipment represents one of the most substantial public rewards