Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike
ZIMBABWE Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson, Mr Michael Reza, has implored authorities to expedite the process of finalising the Whistleblower and Protection Bill as it is useful in finding leads that enable the gathering of necessary evidence to secure convictions.
Speaking at the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) internal audit awareness month event, Mr Reza said although his organisation was pleased that the draft Bill was complete, the process should be sped up.
“To mitigate some of the challenges faced by Internal Auditors who are our critical stakeholders in the fight against corruption, we have lobbied for the legislation of Whistleblower Protection and our efforts are bearing fruit,” he said.
“I am glad to advise that the draft bill has been completed by the Attorney General’s Office and awaits to be tabled in Parliament.
“We continue to call upon the authorities to expedite the process and ensure the protection of whistleblowers because their role is critical in ensuring the strengthening of institutions and in getting useful leads that will enable the gathering of necessary evidence to secure convictions.
“As ZACC, we stand firmly with internal auditors and will continue to advocate for their protection.”
Mr Reza commended ZERA for complying with the expectations of the Commission by constantly submitting the reports to management by external auditors.
“This indicates that the energy regulatory authority is committed to transparency and accountability,” he said.
“We call upon other public and private sector institutions to emulate ZERA by refusing, resisting and reporting corruption.”
