Online Reporter
FOLLOWING the enactment of the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC) Act in 2022, President Mnangagwa appointed former High Court Judge Justice Webster Chinamora to chair the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC) in September 2024. The move was part of the Second Republic’s broader strategy to promote enhanced, effective, and accountable security sector governance. Our Senior Reporter Nyore Madzianike (NM) sat with Mr Tafara Chirambira (TC), the ZICC’s deputy executive secretary for Legal Services, Corporate Affairs and Governance, to gain insights into the work, mandate, and strategic vision of the Commission.
NM: What is the primary mandate of the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission?
TC: ZICC aspires to be a centre of excellence on the continent, advancing a governance vision aligned with His Excellency the President of Zimbabwe’s commitment to the rule of law and a responsive state. ZICC’s role goes beyond complaint intake; it is a proactive mechanism for enforcing constitutional values and bridging the gap between citizens and security institutions. We are constitutionally mandated to investigate misconduct by security services and to scrutinise broader institutional practices that undermine sections 206 and 208 of the Constitution. Through inspections, public hearings and the power to issue remedial measures or referrals to prosecution, ZICC contributes to a safer Zimbabwe founded on justice, dignity, and trust. This is directly in line with the strategic vision of the President and reflects the Second Republic’s effort to professionalize state institutions.
NM: Can you elaborate on the specific functions the ZICC performs?
TC: ZICC was birthed from Section 210 of the Constitution and operationalised by the ZICC ACT Chapter 10:34. Our functions include investigating complaints of misconduct by security services, facilitating redress and recommending prosecution or administrative remedies. As Africa’s pioneering independent oversight body of its kind, that is one having a mandate to oversee all Security sector institutions, ZICC champions transparent governance in the security sector.
NM: How does the ZICC envision its contribution to Zimbabwe’s national development?
TC: The Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission represents a bold and unifying step in our national development journey. We do not exist to fight or defeat the security services, but rather to walk alongside them in strengthening their mandate. ZICC presents an unprecedented opportunity to rebuild trust between the people and those tasked with protecting them. Where there is trust, there is peace. Where there is peace, development can thrive.
By ensuring accountability, promoting professionalism and acting on the grievances of citizens, ZICC contributes directly to a stable, law-abiding society — the bedrock of economic growth, foreign investment, and social cohesion. Our vision is to support the creation of a world-class security service — one that is disciplined, rights-respecting and rooted in service to the public.
As renowned African philosopher and jurist Professor Thandika Mkandawire once noted, “Development is not just about building infrastructure, but about building institutions that can support justice and equity.” That is exactly what ZICC seeks to do — build institutional trust that allows Zimbabwe to move forward united, secure, and strong.
NM: How does the ZICC handle complaints from the public?
TC: Complaints may be lodged in writing by affected individuals or on their behalf. We prioritise substance over form, ensuring access for every citizen irrespective of legal expertise. Our approach is victim-centred, inclusive, and I want to believe efficient.
NM: Which organisations constitute security services?
TC: As defined under Section 207 of the Constitution, these include the Defence Forces, the Police Service, the Intelligence Services, the Prisons and Correctional Service and any other security service established by law.
NM: What steps are taken to ensure transparency and accountability in your operations?
TC: Upon receiving a complaint, we initiate investigations within seven days and update the complainant within 21 days. In urgent matters, we act within 48 hours to ensure protection. In complex scenarios, only one extension of no more than 60 days is permissible. Our systems are built for speed, efficiency and integrity.
NM: How can the public get more involved or informed about the ZICC’s work?
TC: We believe ZICC belongs to the people. We will soon establish offices across provinces, launching digital access platforms and engaging in outreach programmes. Our mandate is “not hidden in legal texts — it must be lived and known by every citizen”.
NM: How does the ZICC collaborate with other Government agencies or civil society organisations?
TC: Our strategy includes MoUs with key stakeholders. We engage in joint training, referrals and strategic forums to ensure inter-institutional synergy in upholding justice. This also strengthens the national human rights architecture so treasured by the Head of State and Government.
NM: What prompted the establishment of the ZICC?
TC: ZICC emerged from a constitutional need to entrench democratic control over security services. The voice of the people is the voice of God; it cannot be ignored. ZICC is a tool to be able to listen and act on that voice.
NM: After investigations are complete, what will be the next step?
TC: We compile a report with our findings and recommendations. These may include: referring a matter for prosecution, directing internal disciplinary action, recommending compensation, or making systemic policy proposals to improve conduct across the security services.
NM: What measures are in place to ensure the integrity of officers within ZICC?
TC: Our recruitment is based on merit, background checks, and declaration of interests. Officers sign a Code of Ethics, undergo induction on accountability and independence, and are subject to internal compliance reviews.
NM: What avenues are available for officers or the public to report unethical behaviour?
TC: We operate a whistleblower channel, accept anonymous submissions, and have an Ethics and Compliance Unit to investigate all allegations. Breaches are addressed promptly to maintain the Commission’s credibility and example-setting role
