Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-03-20 09:59:09
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has recently appointed Michael Reza as the new head of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), a move that has sparked controversy and raised concerns among the opposition and civil society groups. Reza, a prosecutor with a history of persecuting opposition activists and business people, has been accused of using his position to target individuals who are critical of the ruling regime.
One of Reza’s most well-known victims is human rights lawyer Beatrice Mtetwa, who has been repeatedly harassed and arrested by the authorities for defending political activists and journalists. Other notable individuals who have faced persecution at the hands of Reza include opposition leader Tendai Biti, lawyer and advocate Fadzai Mahere, opposition MP Joana Mamombe, activist Makomborero Haruzivishe, and Greek investor George Katsimberis who is involved in a legal dispute with businessman Ken Sharpe.
Reza’s appointment as the head of ZACC has raised concerns about the impartiality and independence of the anti-corruption body. Many fear that Reza’s history of targeting opposition figures and critical voices could undermine the commission’s ability to effectively investigate and prosecute cases of corruption and wrongdoing within the government and ruling party.
In a statement following his appointment, Reza has expressed his commitment to fighting corruption and recovering proceeds of crime. However, his track record and close ties to the ruling party have cast doubt on his ability to carry out his duties without bias or political interference.
The list of individuals who have been targeted by Reza is extensive and includes prominent figures such as human rights activist Evan Mawarire, opposition politician Job Sikhala, author Tsitsi Dangarembga, journalist Hopewell Chin’ono, and lawyer and opposition leader Tendai Biti. These individuals have been subjected to harassment, arrests, and legal persecution, often on politically motivated charges.
The appointment of Reza as the head of ZACC has also raised questions about the government’s commitment to genuine anti-corruption efforts. Critics argue that the move is part of a broader strategy to control and silence dissenting voices, rather than a genuine effort to tackle corruption and hold accountable those in positions of power.
In light of these concerns, calls have been made for Reza to step down from his position and for a more independent and impartial candidate to be appointed to lead ZACC. Civil society groups, opposition parties, and human rights organizations have voiced their opposition to Reza’s appointment, citing his history of targeting opposition figures and his close ties to the ruling party as reasons for their concern.
Ultimately, the controversy surrounding Michael Reza’s appointment as the head of ZACC reflects broader issues of governance, rule of law, and political freedom in Zimbabwe. The ongoing persecution of opposition activists and critical voices highlights the challenges facing the country as it grapples with issues of corruption, human rights abuses, and political repression.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
