Online Reporter
Fidelis Munyoro-Chief Court Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has approved major appointments and promotions to sharpen the effectiveness of the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC).
The changes, effective immediately, are designed to strengthen ZICC’s ability to oversee the security sector and uphold public accountability.
Ms Netsai Cassandra Chivake takes over as executive secretary, a role critical to guiding the commission’s operations.
The appointment marks what ZICC chairman, Retired Justice Webster Chinamora, described as “a testament of support for the Commission’s mandate at the highest level”.
Welcoming her leadership, Justice Chinamora said, “Ms Chivake has vast experience in public management and has worked closely with security services commissions. Such previous interface with the securocrat system tremendously assists the Commission’s work in that she is already in familiar territory.”
Mr Tichafanana Sithole was promoted to the Commission’s deputy executive secretary for operations.
Mr Sithole
Justice Chinamora said Mr Sithole’ remained in the Commission supporting the new executive secretary and providing continuity. “Additionally, he was in the police force for many years, rising to the top rank of Chief Superintendent. His experience in investigations would be invaluable to the Commission,” said Justice Chinamora.
Mr Tafara Chirambira steps in as deputy executive secretary for legal services, corporate affairs and governance. Justice Chinamora underscored the importance of his new role, stating, “His knowledge and experience in Criminal Law and Procedure is an asset when evidence is gathered and presented to the Commission or during hearings.”
Mr Chirambira
He added, “The three professionals have skills which are well suited to achieve the Constitutional imperative of investigating complaints, fairly, transparently, and with integrity. I have no doubt they will help the Commissioners in restoring public trust in Zimbabwe’s security sector.”
He expressed satisfaction with the support received from key stakeholders.
“When we met the Minister of Defence, Hon Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri and the Commander Defence Forces, General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, he assured us that he will fully cooperate,” he said.
Justice Chinamora also acknowledged the commitment of Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe, Police Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba and President’s Department Director-General Dr Fulton Mangwanya.
“Their pledges of full cooperation are a strong indicator of the support the Commission has at the highest levels of Government,” he said.
Commissioners include deputy chairperson Dr Elizabeth Rutsate, Dr Andrew Mataruse, Dr Kudakwashe Muchena and Mr Oliver Mandipaka.
