Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba [email protected]
CHIEF Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza has warned that sexual harassment and any form of improper conduct towards staff in the sector will not be tolerated, as she announced that the Judicial Service Commission is developing a comprehensive sexual harassment policy to guard professionalism.
Delivering a keynote address at the End of Second Term Judges’ Symposium in Gweru yesterday under the theme:
“Reinforcing the Core Skills and Values for Quality and Effective Justice Delivery”, the Chief Justice said judicial authority extends beyond the courtroom into the daily working environment of chambers.
She said the judicial workplace carries an inherent imbalance of power, with judges working closely with secretaries, drivers, clerks, research assistants and other staff who depend on them for guidance and professional growth.
“Every judge must recognise and manage that imbalance responsibly,” she said.
Justice Gwaunza revealed that allegations of improper conduct by judges towards members of staff, including clerks and researchers, have been brought to the attention of the Commission.
“This is a matter of serious concern. They must be confronted openly, without prejudging any particular matter, in order to affirm the standard expected of every individual entrusted with judicial office,” she said.
“Let there be no ambiguity. Sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct are fundamentally inconsistent with the dignity, integrity and values of judicial office. They constitute an abuse of authority and a breach of the trust placed in the Judiciary. Such conduct cannot be excused, minimised or tolerated.”
The Chief Justice said the harm goes beyond the immediate incident, as harassment humiliates the person affected, undermines confidence, and compromises the safety and professionalism of the workplace. It can also force an employee to choose “between protecting personal dignity and preserving professional security”.
To address the issue, Justice Gwaunza said the JSC is developing a comprehensive sexual harassment policy for the Judicial Service.
It will define prohibited conduct, establish safe and confidential reporting mechanisms, protect complainants against victimisation, and provide for appropriate corrective action.
“That initiative deserves the full support of every judge,” she said.
“The underlying principle is straightforward. Every person within the workplace must be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of rank or position.”
Justice Gwaunza urged judges to examine both personal conduct and the culture in their chambers, and to correct promptly any conduct that falls below the required standard.
She also highlighted mental health and wellbeing, saying the pressures of heavy court rolls and difficult decisions take a cumulative toll.
“Seeking appropriate support is not a sign of weakness. It’s an aspect of professional responsibility. Quality justice requires clarity of mind, sound judgment and emotional balance,” she said.
On service delivery, Justice Gwaunza said adjudication remains central but is not always the only path to justice. The JSC continues to explore Alternative Dispute Resolution, including court-annexed mediation and a regulated plea-bargaining framework, to reduce costs and ease pressure on court rolls.
Justice Gwaunza said the justice system must work for litigants of limited means.
“A justice system that can be accessed only by those who can afford representation cannot fully answer to the description of world-class justice,” she said.
The Chief Justice outlined three leadership commitments to underpin quality justice – honesty about progress and shortcomings, investing in people by developing competence and respecting dignity; and keeping the citizen at the centre.
“Every reform, policy and allocation of resources should ultimately answer one question: does this bring justice closer to the ordinary person?” she asked.
The symposium continues with discussions on case management and feedback from court-specific breakaway groups.
