Job Sikhala has defended lawyer Lewis Uriri after Tererayi Obey Sithole criticised his past legal work.
The dispute followed Uriri’s reported decision to reject a car and cash gift from businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
Uriri’s decision has sparked praise from some Zimbabweans, who viewed it as a sign of professional integrity.
However, Sithole questioned why Uriri was being celebrated despite his role in the 2018 presidential election court case.
Sithole questions Uriri’s past
Sithole recalled Uriri’s involvement in the Constitutional Court case following Zimbabwe’s disputed 2018 election.
He said the opposition had demanded that Nelson Chamisa be declared the winner or a runoff be ordered.
According to Sithole, Uriri instead defended President Emmerson Mnangagwa during the legal proceedings.
He then questioned the praise directed at Uriri following his reported rejection of Chivayo’s offer.
“In 2018 when the opposition’s demand was clear: “either you declare Chamisa the winner or you order a run-off” Lewis Uriri stood in defense of Mnangagwa.
The same man who denied you change in 2018 by defending Mnangagwa at the Constitutional Court is the one whom you’re celebrating today for the purported rejection of Weaknail Chivharo’s offer.
Either you’re too forgetful or you’re too forgiving or both.”
Sikhala defends the lawyer
Sikhala, however, rejected the argument that Uriri’s past representation undermines his recent decision.
He drew a distinction between representing a client and accepting personal benefits without providing services.
“There is some difference between a lawyer representing a client who has knocked on your door for your legal services and being compromised.”
Sikhala said Uriri’s refusal of the reported freebies deserved recognition.
He also acknowledged that public figures can have different moments in their careers.
“There are no angels on earth. We are all sinners and where someone did good people celebrate.”
Sikhala concluded by praising Uriri’s decision and professional conduct.
“On this one kudos to the Senior Councel !!!”
The exchange has therefore highlighted differing views about professional representation, integrity and political accountability.
The post ‘We are all sinners’: Job Sikhala defends Lewis Uriri on 2018 election criticism appeared first on iHarare News.
