The newly appointed Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Commissioner General, Stephen Mutamba, officially assumed office this Friday at the Zimbabwe Republic Police Mkushi Academy, formerly Morris Depot.
The handover ceremony was graced by the retiring Commissioner General, Godwin Matanga, who formally passed the baton to his successor, dispelling rumors that he was reluctant to step down.
In his farewell remarks, Commissioner General Matanga expressed confidence in Mutamba’s ability to lead the force effectively.
“I am confident that a new broom sweeps clean. My successor, Cde Stephen Mutamba, will build on the achievements we’ve made and tackle challenges head-on. Having worked with him in the trenches for many years, I have no doubt in his capacity to steer the ship forward. I also extend my gratitude to him and the Deputy Commissioners for their unwavering support during my tenure,” he said.
In his keynote address Commissioner General Mutamba revealed that he was happy to be inheriting a disciplined force.
“Let me hasten to say that, one of the immediate inheritances that you have bequeathed me is a disciplined Police Service, well established and appropriately guided by the Strategic Plan: Horizon 2025″, he said.
He intimated that the Police force plays a pivotal role in the success and development of the country and the attainment of Vision 2030.
“Although the Strategic Plan is coming to the end of its lifetime, the foundations it has laid for the organisation are critical going forward. More so, at a time when the Police Service has a vital role of creating a conducive environment for the sustenance and success of national development priorities pronounced through Vision 2030,” said Comm-Gen Mutamba.
The outgoing Commissioner General was thanked for his unparalleled leadership of the force during his tenure.
“I greatly thank you my dear brother for laying such a strong foundation. Going forward, I hope to build on the already reinforced pillars to ensure that the Zimbabwe Republic Police indeed becomes a modern police service that leverages technology towards fulfilling its Constitutional mandate.
In doing so, I will equally continue to ride on discipline as the cornerstone of the organisation whilst also expecting all members and officers of the organisation to remain steadfast”, he said.
Commissioner General Mutamba, a seasoned officer with extensive experience, is tasked with addressing pressing issues within the force.
These include combating the illegal taxis, Mshika Shika menace in urban areas, curbing allegations of corruption within the force’s rank and file, and tackling rising crime rates among others.
His appointment is expected to reinforce the ZRP’s reputation for professionalism while steering the organization to greater heights.
