AfBA President, Ibrahim Eddy Mark Pays Tribute To Late Dr. Rodger Chongwe At Supreme Court Of Zambia Valedictory Session
The African Bar Association (AfBA) paid glowing tribute to its founding president, the late Dr. Rodger Masauso Alivas Chongwe (SC), at a solemn valedictory session held at the Supreme Court of Zambia. The event brought together members of the judiciary, the legal community, and government officials to honour a man described as a legal giant and a pillar of integrity.
In his farewell address, the President of AfBA, High Chief Ibrahim Eddy Mark, expressed the Association’s deep sorrow at Dr. Chongwe’s passing, while celebrating the remarkable legacy he left behind. He noted that though it was difficult to say goodbye, it was comforting to do so by celebrating the love, laughter, and impact of Dr. Chongwe’s life.
“Dr. Chongwe was more than our founding president,” Mark said. “He was a source of strength, kindness, and leadership, a man who made everyone feel valued through his words and actions.”
Dr. Chongwe died on May 6, 2025, at the age of 86. He served as President of the Law Association of Zambia, founding President of AfBA, and later President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association. His public service included serving as Zambia’s Minister of Legal Affairs after being elected Member of Parliament for Mandevu in 1991.
Born on October 2, 1938, Dr. Chongwe began his legal journey in Australia before returning to Zambia in 1969. He had a successful private practice and gained wide respect both locally and internationally. President Kenneth Kaunda later conferred on him the prestigious rank of State Counsel.
Mark quoted extensively from tributes by legal historians, including Sishuwa Sishuwa, who described Dr. Chongwe as one of Zambia’s greatest legal minds. Mark also recalled Dr. Chongwe’s integrity, noting that he lived a clean life in government and remained untainted by scandal.
“Even in his final days, he taught us courage and grace,” Mark said. “He gave more than he received, a lesson for all of us still alive.”
The AfBA President expressed gratitude to the Zambian judiciary, the Ministry of Justice, and the Law Association of Zambia for organising what he described as a befitting farewell. Mark also extended condolences to Dr. Chongwe’s family and praised his legacy as an example of resilience, compassion, and service to humanity.
“He ran a good race. He came, he saw, and he conquered,” Mark concluded. “May we remember him not only in sorrow, but with gratitude for the time we shared.”
The tribute ended with prayers for Dr. Chongwe’s peaceful repose and strength for his family and countrymen as they mourn an irreplaceable loss.
READ THE FULL SPEECH HERE>>> Fare Thee Well Speech of the President
