Zimbabwe’s new Prosecutor General vows to shield NPA from political interference

ZIMSPHERE

HARARE – In a recent meeting with the Law Society of Zimbabwe, the newly appointed Prosecutor General (PG), Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo, made a resolute declaration that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will not tolerate any political interference or manipulation in its operations.

LSZ President Councillor Rumbidzai Matambo (3rd from right) recently paid a courtesy call on new PG Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo (centre) [Image: Law Society of Zimbabwe]

The meeting, attended by Law Society President Councillor Rumbidzai Matambo, Vice President Councillor Lison Ncube, and Executive Secretary Mr Edward Mapara, was held to discuss the strengthening of relations between the NPA and the Law Society, two pivotal institutions in the justice sector.

Justice Matanda-Moyo, who previously served as the chairperson of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), was appointed to the NPA following Zimbabwe’s 2023 general elections. 

Her tenure at ZACC was marked by a persistent call for progress in the prosecution of corruption cases, a cause she is expected to champion in her new role.

The meeting also addressed the issue of staff retention at the NPA, with Justice Matanda-Moyo acknowledging the detrimental impact of staff drain on the NPA's performance. 

She revealed that the newly constituted NPA board is actively working on improving working conditions and implementing non-payroll benefits such as housing and vehicle loan schemes for its 701-strong prosecutorial team.

The NPA is also focusing on capacity building through continuous professional development of its staff. 

This includes cybersecurity training in India and further training sessions with renowned legal trainer Dr Tarisai Mutangi and Law Development Commission Chairman Mr R Shana. 

The Law Society of Zimbabwe will also be called upon to provide resource persons from its membership as needed.

In addition to these measures, the NPA is developing a comprehensive health and mental wellness program for its prosecutors and support staff, recognizing the emotional toll that their work can often entail.

The parties agreed to collaborate in capacity building and training, fostering a culture of hard work and commitment to professionalism.