By Evans Dakwa , News Editor
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has come out to assure the public of its commitment to the upholding of justice, this after mumblings of an incompetent body have been growing louder in the public discourse.
The NPAZ which for long has been under the public microscope especially when it comes to corruption cases, is back in the limelight over the acquittal of Harare’s Town Clerk Hosiah Chisango and his four colleagues Never Murerwa, Denford Zhungu, Tawanda Mutenhabundo and Artkins Mandaza in the US$9 million street lights scandal in which they are alleged to have facilitated the deal in favour of Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu’s Juluka Endo Company.
With the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission picking where the NPAZ left maintaining the Harare City crew are criminally liable, the public glare has been taken back to the prosecuting authority hence the issuing of a statement ‘absolving’ itself from any wrong doing as it only a’ct on investigations and evidence’ brought before the Authority.
“The success of prosecution is directly linked to the quality of conducted investigations. NPAZ takes pride in presenting only ready and complete matters in court, adhering to high standards and constitutional responsibilities. The decision on how to proceed with cases rests on our constitutional prerogative to initiate criminal proceedings, and we are dedicated to fostering productive partnerships with supportive government agencies for a robust justice system,” said the NPAZ in a clear response to innuendo in the ZACC statement.
The NPAZ also moved to reassert itself as an independent body that makes independent decisions without any undue influence emphasising its thoroughness in handling cases.
“The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) functions as a critical pillar of the justice system, deriving its powers and authority from the Constitution of Zimbabwe. It operates with independence, without fear or favor, and is dedicated to upholding the rule of law with diligence and integrity.”
“NPAZ prioritizes thoroughness in its processes cesses and does not rush to set down matters for trial that are incomplete or lack sufficient evidence. We work closely with investigative agencies to guide and support their efforts in ensuring successful prosecution,” noted the Prosecuting Authority.
It remains to be seen if ZACC which is preparing to press charges against the five Harare executives will indeed proceed and what new evidence will be unearthed by their own investigators to nullify the discharge of the accused as done by the NPAZ.
This is one of those classic case where government agencies that are supposed to work together find themselves at loggerheads throwing subtle threats and jabs at each other, the manifestation of discord rather than the much needed coherence in the discharge of their duties.