Lawyer Lewis Uriri Rejects $350,000 Gift Package from Wicknell Chivayo

Advocate Lewis Uriri and his wife rejected a gift package valued at approximately US$350,000 offered by Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo. The offer included a 2026 Range Rover Sport Autobiography worth US$250,000, US$50,000 for fuel, and a US$50,000 handbag allowance for Uriri's wife.

Uriri stated the gifts were a surprise and could compromise his professional integrity and independence. Citing the Zimbabwe Legal Practitioners' Code of Conduct and international legal principles, he noted that he had not performed professional work for Chivayo since June 2024 and sought to avoid any perception of personal financial obligation.

Chivayo responded by stating he respected the decision, though he claimed Uriri had previously accepted a Land Rover Discovery 4 valued at US$120,000, along with first-class travel and holidays. While Chivayo maintained there was no grudge, he indicated he would redirect the gifts to others who genuinely need assistance.

The refusal earned praise from some war veterans and legal peers, while other commentators suggested the public nature of the dispute complicates Uriri's professional narrative.