The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works have set up a joint task force to investigate suspected corruption in local authorities across the country.
ZACC chairperson Michael Reza said the move follows a rise in complaints from residents over issues including questionable land allocations, procurement irregularities and abuse of office by some council officials.
Speaking during commemorations for African Anti-Corruption Day in Victoria Falls on Saturday, Reza said the task force was established in response to concerns raised by communities.
“We are aware of the issues that have been raised by the residents of this beautiful city of Victoria Falls,” said Reza.
“I would like to advise that, as ZACC, working together with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, we have set up a joint special task force to investigate cases of suspected corruption in local authorities.”
Reza said the abundance of natural resources in Matabeleland North, including wildlife, forests and minerals, leaves the province vulnerable to corruption such as abuse of office, fraud and bribery as people seek to exploit them.
He said some investigations can take a long time to conclude and acknowledged that this can be frustrating for residents, but said ZACC inquiries have to be thorough and properly focused.
Reza praised citizens who expose corruption through whistleblowing, describing whistleblowers and witnesses as critical partners in the fight against graft.
More: The Herald
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