By Fanuel James

Senior Counsel Lewis Uriri has declined a gift package worth about US$350,000 offered to him and his wife by businessman Wicknell Chivayo.

Uriri said accepting the gifts could compromise the independence and integrity of their professional relationship.

Chivayo had offered Uriri a brand-new 2026 Range Rover Sport Autobiography valued at US$250,000, together with US$50,000 in fuel money.

He also offered a further US$50,000 to Uriri’s wife, who is also a senior lawyer.

In his public offer, Chivayo praised Uriri as a “LAWYER PAR EXCELLENCE” and told him: “GO AND SEE VICTOR on Wednesday and collect your BRAND-NEW 2026 RANGE ROVER SPORT AUTOBIOGRAPHY, valued at US$250,000, fully paid for and ready for your collection.”

Chivayo said the offer was intended as recognition for Uriri’s legal work over the years.

“Continue defending your clients with distinction, continue making your mark in the legal profession and continue demonstrating why the title SENIOR COUNSEL sits so comfortably on your shoulders.”

Uriri, however, said he and his wife had carefully considered the offer before deciding to decline it.

He said he had not undertaken professional work for Chivayo since their last conversation in June 2024.

According to him all fees relating to the historical legal work had already been paid.

Uriri said the unexpected nature and substantial value of the gifts, particularly their connection to previous professional services, required careful consideration.

He said accepting them could create a perception of a financial obligation extending beyond a professional engagement that had already ended.

“The decision is nevertheless firm: we will not accept the vehicle or either of the cash gifts,” Uriri stated.

The lawyer thanked Chivayo for his recognition and generous words but said the decision was guided by the need to preserve professional independence and public confidence in the legal profession.

Uriri joins ZAOGA’s Eunor Guti, Paul Mwazha of African Apostolic Church and ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi as the only people to have refused gifts from Chivayo.