Zimpapers Politics Hub
ZIMBABWE Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson, Mr Michael Reza, has urged ambassadors posted in various diplomatic missions to help the country as it faces serious hurdles in obtaining cooperation on extra-territorial investigations in corruption cases.
He made the remarks at the signing of integrity pledges by the country’s ambassadors at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade boardroom this Thursday.
“Recovering proceeds of corruption stashed in foreign safe havens has proven arduous. It is our hope that as you go back to your postings, you are going to help Zimbabwe forge beneficial relations with designated institutions for mutual legal assistance,” Mr Reza said.
“Mutual legal assistance is one of the avenues employed by the Anti-Corruption Agencies as they seek, not only to prosecute the offenders, but also deprive the offenders of enjoying the proceeds of crime.”
He said the fight against corruption is a global battle that requires international cooperation and a united front.
“You have a critical role in facilitating and hastening the recovery of evidence of money-laundering and other corruption related crimes. This will help enhance successful extra-territorial investigations and prosecution of offenders.
“As the representatives of our country, you are expected to lead by example and to leverage your positions to amplify our position and stance. Integrity is of paramount importance in your line of duty,” he said.
Mr Reza said the ambassadors’ representative role as the face of the country in their various postings demands that they conduct themselves in ways that are beyond reproach.
“You are the face of our nation, the emissaries who carry our message, protect our interests, and build bridges of cooperation with foreign governments and multilateral organisations. In this role, your personal and professional integrity is not just a matter of individual conduct, it is a reflection of our national values and commitments, ” Mr Reza said.
“By signing the Integrity Pledge, you are sending a clear and unambiguous signal to the world that the Government of Zimbabwe is serious about the fight against corruption and that the country expect its representatives abroad to be its standard-bearers.”
