In loving memory of Michael M. Mundashi, S.C, who passed away on 26 March 2024. Michael was not only a cherished colleague but also a dear friend and co-founder of Mulenga Mundashi Legal Practitioners, where he served as its first Managing Partner, guiding, and shaping its growth with wisdom and integrity. His loss leaves a void in our hearts and in the legal community, that cannot be filled.

Michael’s journey in the legal profession traversed over three decades, marked by remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication. He graduated from the University of Zambia in 1984, top of his class (Professor Bentsi-Enchill Award as Best Graduating Law Student). After being admitted to the Zambian bar in 1985, he joined the then Mwanawasa & Company in Ndola, a private law firm as an Advocate handling both civil and criminal litigation.

Between 1988 and 1991, he served as part time tutor at the University of Zambia Law School. In 1988, he joined the Zambia State Insurance Corporation Limited (ZSIC) as in-house counsel where he worked up to 1994. As in house counsel, he gave advise on various insurance issues (both long term and general insurance and pensions); as ZSIC was the only licensed insurance underwriter at the time.

In 1994, he moved to the newly established Zambia Revenue Authority as Head of the Legal Division and was instrumental in the setting up of the Revenue Appeals Tribunal (now the Tax Appeals Tribunal). In that position, he was part of the Authority’s team that advised the Zambian Government on fiscal legislation, including the migration from the Sales Tax regime to Value Added Tax in 1995. He also participated in the negotiation and drafting of double taxation agreements between the Zambian Government and other states.

Between 1998 and 2003, he served as the first Non-Executive Chairperson of the Zambian Revenue Appeals Tribunal, a quasi-judicial tribunal handling tax appeals from taxpayers challenging tax assessments of the Zambia Revenue Authority. Between 2002 and 2005, he was part of a legal team that successfully defended the then President of the Republic of Zambia in the Supreme Court of Zambia in a high-profile case where the results of the 2001 Zambian presidential elections were challenged in court. In 2008, he was honoured with the rank and dignity of State Counsel.

Beyond his legal prowess, Michael made significant contributions to the community and the profession. He served as a beacon of leadership, holding various prestigious positions, including Non-Executive Director and Chairperson of the board of Zambeef Products Plc, Non-Executive Director of Nico Insurance Zambia Limited and Chairperson of Lusaka Trust Hospital. Further, he served as Chairperson of Sanlam Life Assurance Zambia Limited and Non-Executive Chairperson of Standard Chartered Bank Zambia Plc and British American Tobacco Plc. He also served on boards of various pension funds trusts notable, the Professional Insurance Corporation Zambia (PICZ), a multi – employer trust. He was instrumental in the setting up of the Toyota Zambia Limited Pension Fund.

Between 1992 and 1997, he served as Legal Advisor and Vice-President of the Zambia Red Cross Society. Between 1994 and 1997, he served as Honorary Secretary of the Law Association of Zambia. He was also an Alumni of the United States International Visitor Leadership Program.

Michael’s expertise extended across both the private and public sectors. He was renowned for his exceptional advocacy skills, handling civil and criminal litigation with finesse. His passion for justice was evident in every case he took on.

Michael’s legacy goes beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a mentor, a visionary, and a true friend to many. His kindness, humility, and unwavering commitment to excellence inspired all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his remarkable life and the indelible impact he left on our firm, the legal fraternity, and the countless lives he touched. Michael’s memory will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us as we continue his legacy of integrity, compassion, and dedication to the pursuit of justice.