ZACC Deputy Chairperson Commissioner Kuziva Murapa
By Dickson Bandera
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has pledged to support the media in their efforts to investigate and report on corruption issues, as the national fight against graft continues.
This commitment was expressed by the ZACC Deputy Chairperson during a two-day Anti-Corruption Reporting Workshop held in Harare on Wednesday and Thursday, attended by about 20 journalists from both public and independent media.
Commissioner Kuziva Murapa, who was the guest of honor, noted the challenges that journalists face in covering corruption cases hence, the Commission committed to supporting them with expertise and resources.
“We understand the risks and challenges that you face as journalists, from threats to your safety and freedom to the complexities of navigating legal and ethical considerations. But know that you do not stand alone. ZACC stands ready to support you, to provide resources, expertise, and collaboration in our shared mission to combat corruption,” said the Deputy Chairperson.
While the media has played a significant role in uncovering corruption in various private and public institutions which has led to recovery of millions of dollars, journalists have faced challenges that threaten their personal security, as those implicated in corrupt deals often direct threats or harm at the media to induce fear and deter reporting. This situation is exacerbated by a lack of resources for thorough investigations, which can demotivate reporters from pursuing graft related stories.
The Deputy Chairperson spoke at length about the importance of maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and diligence in all institutions.
“Together, let us hold ourselves to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and diligence in our work. Let us continue to uncover corruption wherever it may hide – in government institutions, private enterprises, or civil society – and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice,” he noted.
Some of the media practitioners who attended the ZACC workshop
He also emphasized the importance of integrity in their collaboration.
“Let me hasten to say this collaboration demands that both of us be people of integrity. For journalists, integrity is an essential attribute if issues are to be thoroughly investigated and ultimately exposed.
“A journalist with integrity can’t be bought, swayed, or influenced. They do not accept favours, bribes, or promises. They are free from any chains that could prevent them from shining a light in dark places and digging where others don’t,” he added.
In line with the National Strategy on Corruption, Commissioner Murapa encouraged journalists to sign the Integrity Pledge, commending those who have already done so.
“I am pleased to share with you that in April and May, a total of 25 journalists signed an integrity pledge. This is a commendable step by members of the fourth estate as it goes beyond the call of holding duty bearers to account, to being proactive in their individual capacities,” he said.
The workshop aimed to enhance journalists’ understanding of corruption, equip them with investigative skills and tools, and promote collaboration with anti-corruption bodies.
It also sought to boost journalists’ capacity to investigate and report corruption while fostering ethical reporting and responsible journalism to ensure accurate, unbiased coverage.
