Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) officials yesterday signed integrity pledges in a public demonstration of their commitment to transparency, accountability and ethical conduct.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), which presided over the ceremony, described the pledges as a binding moral and professional contract between ZEC leadership and the people of Zimbabwe.
The ceremony, held in Harare, was attended by ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, commissioners, senior executives and members of the secretariat.
Also present were ZACC chairperson Mr Michael Reza and commissioners, including Mr Kindness Paradza.
Integrity pledges are social contracts through which public officials affirm their dedication to upholding integrity and rejecting corruption. Yesterday’s event marked a significant step in reinforcing public trust in electoral institutions ahead of future processes.
In his address, Mr Reza said the signing of the pledges was a firm endorsement of the Government’s policy of zero tolerance to corruption, as championed by President Mnangagwa.
“The principles we are institutionalising today through these integrity pledges are practical governance tools that have a direct bearing on electoral outcomes and public trust,” he said.
“In my four decades of public service, I have learned that institutional credibility is never granted; it is earned through consistent, visible actions like this one.”
Mr Reza highlighted three critical pillars of electoral integrity: transparency, accountability and institutional credibility.
Mr Reza said transparency in electoral processes ensures that all stakeholders that is, political parties, candidates, observers and voters – can verify the fairness of elections.
He said accountability creates checks and balances within electoral institutions.
In her remarks, Justice Chigumba said the Commission was aware of the immense responsibility in safeguarding Zimbabwe’s democracy.
“The trust placed in us by the citizens of Zimbabwe is both a privilege and a duty,” she said.
“By signing this integrity pledge, we are collectively committing ourselves to uphold the highest standards of ethical behaviour in all our endeavours.
“This pledge is not merely a formality; it embodies our resolve to act with integrity and fairness, to ensure that every election is conducted in a manner that reflects the will of Zimbabweans.
“It is a declaration that we, as a Commission, will resist any temptation towards corruption and will strive to maintain the confidence of all stakeholders in our electoral processes.”
She urged ZEC staff, particularly senior management, to lead by example in fostering a culture of integrity.
“By leading by example, you set the tone for our collective commitment,” she added.
“It is essential that we support one another in this journey, holding each other accountable to the principles we are affirming today.”
