Mutembe, Rwanda’s longest-serving lawyer, still strong after 40 years

Advocate Protais Mutembe, a 93-year-old recognized as the most senior and exemplary advocate for his outstanding contributions to the legal profession, was honoured during Rwanda Bar Association’s general assembly for his remarkable 44 years in the legal profession. ALSO READ: Umugwaneza’s journey to helm of East Africa magistrates' body Mutembe describes his career as a calling and a contribution to the country’s justice sector. The Rwanda Bar Association celebrates excellence and professionalism within the legal community. Today, we proudly recognize *Adv. Protais Mutembe* as the *most senior and exemplary advocate* for his outstanding contributions to the legal profession. pic.twitter.com/78QQf4pP8D — Rwanda Bar Association (@Rwanda_Bar) December 19, 2024 In an exclusive interview with The New Times, Mutembe reflected on his career journey. “I began my career as a lawyer in 1980 in Kinshasa,” he said. “I started with a three-year internship, half of which was in Kinshasa and the other half in Goma. Being closer to Rwanda, even as refugees, made me feel more at home.” After completing his internship, Mutembe established his law firm in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province in northeastern DR Congo. “I was the first local lawyer after two white lawyers left following Congo’s independence. That worked to my advantage as I attracted many clients. However, I faced the challenge of traveling 700 miles to Kinshasa for appeals. It was tough, but my love for the profession kept me going,” he recounted. Mutembe continued serving the community in DR Congo until 1995, following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. “We returned to Rwanda, and during that period, I served as a legal advisor in the Office of the President,” he said. In 1997, Mutembe became one of the founding members of Rwanda Bar Association, where he has continued to serve. Reflecting on those early years, he said, “When we started, it was challenging. Many trials were related to the Genocide, requiring us to travel across the country.” “There was also a misconception that defending someone accused of Genocide meant sharing their ideology. Over time, people began to understand that you can defend someone while holding different beliefs.” Financial struggles also marked the profession’s early days. “Lawyers’ rewards were minimal, and some clients couldn’t afford legal fees. In such cases, we accepted what they could offer. Our profession isn’t solely about money; it’s also about contributing to the country and community,” Mutembe explained. Asked about what kept him dedicated for over four decades, Mutembe attributed it to his passion for law. “I enjoy analyzing cases and delivering on my clients' trust in me. Law has always captivated me, so I continue serving to this day.” ‘Strive to make meaningful impact’ Though his workload decreased in recent years, Mutembe advocates for collaboration and specialization among lawyers to enhance efficiency. His educational journey started in the early 1940s when, in 1946, he started high school at Petit Séminaire Kabgayi, followed by five years at Grand Séminaire Nyakibanda, respectively in Southern Province. He later pursued theology at a university in Kinshasa, in 1958. Afterwards, he earned a law degree in Belgium. Before practicing law, he worked as a teacher of theology in Rwanda and Kinshasa. When asked about retirement, Mutembe said, “As long as there’s work, I’ll continue. “I can still walk, read, and appear in court to defend my clients. I’ll step back only when I can no longer deliver.” To the younger generation, Mutembe offered advice. “Be professional, serve your country, and contribute to justice delivery. Don’t let money be your sole motivation; consider the situations people face and strive to make a meaningful impact.”

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Mutembe, Rwanda’s longest-serving lawyer, still strong after 40 years