On International Anti-Corruption Day, Zimbabwe focused on the essential role of stakeholders in fighting corruption effectively. Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ) released a statement emphasizing unity in this battle, in line with Article 13(i) of the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
The statement advocates actively engaging civil society, non-governmental organisations, and community-based groups to prevent and fight corruption, while also raising public awareness of its severity and consequences.
Zimbabwe’s low ranking on global governance indices, especially in the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, is a cause for concern. The country stands at 157th out of 180, with a score of only 23 out of 100, falling below the regional average of 33. TIZ identifies the lack of coordination among institutions and the ineffective implementation of anti-corruption laws as the main reasons for this poor performance.
Additionally, TIZ highlights how legislative developments, such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Bill and specific sections of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, are hindering anti-corruption measures by limiting civic space and thus hampering efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in governance.
Echoing these sentiments, the Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development (Zimcodd) expresses concern about the rising corruption cases in the country. The organisation points out the alarming trend of individuals using political connections to escape arrest and prosecution, known as the ‘catch-and-release’ phenomenon.
Zimcodd brings to light the severe consequences of corruption on the population, manifesting in poor public services, widespread poverty, injustice, unemployment, health crises, and reduced life expectancy. Furthermore, the organisation recognizes the negative impact on investor confidence, the growth of unsustainable debt, and the weakening of social protection systems.
To address these challenges, Zimcodd calls for stronger oversight by institutions like Parliament to monitor public deals and debt management effectively. The organisation advocates for arresting and prosecuting high-ranking officials engaged in corruption to break the cycle of impunity and political influence typical of the ‘catch-and-release’ pattern.
