Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Post Correspondent
PLANS to table the Whistleblower and Witness Protection Bill in the National Assembly are now at an advanced stage, with the Parliament of Zimbabwe showing strong support for the initiative.
The Bill seeks to protect individuals who provide information on illicit activities within organisations and by other individuals, thereby encouraging more people to come forward without fear of reprisal.
Speaking on the sidelines of a public lecture at Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences on Wednesday, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson, Mr Michael Reza said the process is progressing smoothly.
“We are at a very advanced stage with the Whistleblower and Witness Protection Bill. Parliament has been very forthcoming, and we have received maximum cooperation from the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. The process is now within that ministry where checks and balances are being finalised. Once that is done, the Bill will be taken to Parliament for debate, and eventually His Excellency, Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa will sign it into law. I can assure you, we are at the tail-end of the process.”
Mr Reza underscored the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of whistleblowers and witnesses.
“When people know they are protected—when they are assured that nothing bad will happen to them for providing evidence or blowing the whistle—then many hidden cases of corruption will be brought to light. This is a significant step forward.
‘‘We don’t want to expose anyone who has taken the brave step of reporting corruption. Protection and security are critical for both whistleblowers and witnesses.”
He also highlighted the importance of engaging young people in the fight against corruption.
“At this occasion, we were invited here to speak to students and staff about corruption—what it is and how it affects the country. I focused on delivering a message to the students about the dangers of corruption and the role they can play in combating it. Corruption damages the economy, undermines national development, and threatens the future of everyone.”
Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS) Dean of Students, Dr Isheanesu Amon Chaka, described Mr Reza’s address as “an intellectual tour de force.”
“You managed to demystify the complex structure and work of ZACC, while issuing a clarion call to our collective conscience.
Your exposition on ZACC’s multi-pronged approach—investigation, prevention, and public education—was especially enlightening. You have shown that corruption is, not a victimless crime, but a corrosive force that undermines economic development and erodes public trust.
I must commend our students, faculty, and staff for their engaged presence and thoughtful questions. This event showed that the subject of integrity is being taken seriously within our institution,” said Dr Gata.
Dr Gata also expressed appreciation to the organising committee and the Public Relations department for their role in ensuring the success of the event.
“Mr Reza has planted a seed. Our students now understand that the fight against corruption is not a spectator sport. Responsibility begins with each of us—in our refusal to pay bribes, in our commitment to academic honesty, and in our courage to demand transparency,” he said.
