Online Reporter
Fidelis Munyoro, Harare Bureau
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has approved key appointments and promotions aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (Zicc).
The changes, which take immediate effect, are intended to strengthen Zicc’s capacity to oversee the security sector and uphold public accountability.
Ms Netsai Cassandra Chivake has been appointed Executive Secretary — a pivotal role in guiding the Commission’s operations.
Her appointment, according to Zicc Chairperson Retired Justice Webster Chinamora, is “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. Her previous interface with the securocrat system greatly benefits the Commission’s work, as she is already familiar with the terrain.”
Mr Tichafanana Sithole has been promoted to Deputy Executive Secretary for Operations, bringing a wealth of expertise to the role.
Justice Chinamora highlighted the value of continuity.
“His continued presence in the Commission supports the new Executive Secretary. Additionally, he served in the police force for many years, rising to the rank of Chief Superintendent. His investigative experience will be invaluable to the Commission.”
In the legal services division, Mr Tafara Chirambira has been appointed Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Services, Corporate Affairs and Governance.
Justice Chinamora underscored the importance of his role.
“His knowledge and experience in criminal law and procedure are assets when evidence is gathered and presented to the Commission or during hearings. These three professionals possess the skills necessary to fulfil the constitutional imperative of investigating complaints fairly, transparently and with integrity. I have no doubt they will assist the Commissioners in restoring public trust in Zimbabwe’s security sector.”
While celebrating the appointments, Justice Chinamora also stressed the need to decentralise operations in line with the National Development Strategy 1. He emphasised the importance of public awareness campaigns to educate both citizens and security personnel about the Commission’s role.
“There is an urgent need for nationwide awareness campaigns, including visits to cantonment areas, so that both the public and members of the security services understand what the Commission does,” he said.
He expressed satisfaction with the support received from key stakeholders.
“When we met the Minister of Defence, Hon Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, and the Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, he assured us of his full co-operation,” he said.
Justice Chinamora also acknowledged the commitment of Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe, Police Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba, and President’s Department Commissioner General Dr Fulton Mangwanya.
“Their pledges of full co-operation are a strong indicator of the support the Commission enjoys at the highest levels of government,” he said.
Operational since September last year, Zicc is a product of the Second Republic’s drive to promote transparency and accountability within the security sector.
Commissioners include Deputy Chairperson Dr Elizabeth Rutsate, Dr Andrew Mataruse, Dr Kudakwashe Muchena and Mr Oliver Mandipaka.
Zicc is mandated to investigate public complaints of misconduct involving members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Central Intelligence Organisation and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service.
The Commission conducts investigations, makes recommendations and ensures justice is served.
The Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission Act defines the Commission’s responsibilities, regulates its operations and ensures that security services are held accountable.
