Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission now operational

The Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC), chaired by Justice Webster Chinamora, is now fully operational and has already received 15 complaints from citizens, mostly related to assault cases.

The ZICC, a five-member body, is tasked with addressing grievances against misconduct by security services, including the police, army, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS), and the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO).

Justice Chinamora paid a courtesy call to Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda on Tuesday, where he briefed journalists on the progress of the Commission's work so far.

"Since our appointment, we have not previously visited the Speaker of Parliament, despite Parliament being the origin of our mandate," said Chinamora. "Section 210 of the Constitution empowers us to investigate cases of misconduct or constitutional violations by members of the security services - the Army, CIO, prison service, and police."

He explained that most complaints received relate to assaults by police officers, abuse of office, and delays in addressing reported violations.

Chinamora also praised the support the Commission has received from President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration. "We have been allocated offices by the Office of the President and Cabinet, and we have also received backing from the Public Service Commission," he said.

The Commission has drafted regulations detailing procedures for receiving, investigating, and adjudicating complaints. These drafts have been submitted to the Attorney General and are currently being developed into a statutory instrument.

Justice Chinamora further revealed that Speaker Mudenda has offered valuable suggestions, including hosting a retreat with senior officers from the security services. The aim is to build trust and reduce misconduct by educating the top brass on how to prevent complaints from arising.

"This initiative will help foster better cooperation and ensure that security service leaders understand how to avoid mistakes that lead to misconduct," Chinamora added.

The ZICC's establishment and ongoing efforts represent a key step in promoting accountability and upholding constitutional rights in Zimbabwe's security sector.