admin
Freeman Razemba, Senior Reporter
OFFICIALS from the Attorney General’s Office yesterday signed an integrity pledge reaffirming their commitment to combating corruption and enhancing transparency and accountability.
The ceremony, held in Harare and overseen by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), involved board members and senior officials from the AG’s office, including Attorney General Mrs Virginia Mabiza.
Integrity pledges serve as social contracts where individuals commit to act against corruption.
ZACC chairperson, Mr Michael Reza, said this initiative reinforces the ethical framework of the Attorney General’s Office.
“As the Government’s principal legal advisor and guardian of public interest, the Attorney General’s Office is pivotal in the fight against corruption,” Mr Reza said.
He said the establishment of an Integrity Committee was aimed at fostering an environment resistant to corruption.
Mr Reza appealed to public officials to embrace ethical consciousness, reminding them of their moral obligations to serve with honesty.
He noted that sustainable change stems from internalised values rather than fear of punishment.
“This programme reflects our whole-of-Government approach to fighting corruption. We recognise that we cannot win this fight alone; every institution, especially the Attorney General’s Office, must take ownership of anti-corruption efforts,” Mr Reza said.
The Attorney General’s Office plays a vital role in the national anti-corruption architecture, influencing legal policy that affects transparency and accountability.
Mrs Mabiza reiterated the office’s zero tolerance to corruption, adding that all board members are required to declare their assets and interests upon appointment, reinforcing the commitment to transparency.
“The integrity pledges complement existing mechanisms to enhance accountability and promote good corporate practices,” Mrs Mabiza said.
“In 2024, the board approved a code of ethical and professional conduct, obligating all officers to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
“Officers are expected to perform their duties with diligence and maintain fairness in public service,” she said.
The signing of the integrity pledges marks a significant step towards reinforcing ethical practices within the Attorney General’s Office, aligning with broader efforts to combat corruption in Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter