By Aldridge Dzvene
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to good governance and institutional integrity by signing integrity pledges in a move widely seen as reinforcing accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership within the country’s electoral management system. The signing ceremony, which took place on Friday, brought together ZEC Commissioners, the Chairperson, and Secretariat, marking a proactive step in aligning public service with the national anti-corruption agenda.
Speaking during the event, ZEC Chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba underscored the importance of integrity in public institutions, particularly those charged with overseeing electoral processes. She emphasised that beyond policy declarations, it is the internal culture and values of institutions that define their credibility. “This embodies our resolve, our willingness to operate credibly for our people. Management and staff are crucial in setting the tone for integrity, holding each other accountable to our values,” said Justice Chigumba.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), represented by its Chairperson Mr Michael Reza, applauded ZEC for taking the initiative to institutionalise ethics and accountability. He reiterated that integrity cannot be legislated but must be consciously cultivated. “This is an affirmation of our zero-corruption principles. We are institutionalising today a commitment bearing directly on electoral outcomes. Institutional credibility is not granted, it’s earned. Good governance is built on accountability,” said Mr Reza.
This development comes at a time when Zimbabwe is intensifying its anti-corruption drive through multi-sectoral reforms. These include the operationalisation of specialised anti-corruption courts, the rollout of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, and the mainstreaming of ethics-based leadership across public sector institutions. The signing of the integrity pledges by ZEC places the Commission within a global accountability framework, in line with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, which urges public bodies to establish systems that promote transparency, integrity, and public trust.
As Zimbabwe prepares for future electoral cycles, the reaffirmation of ZEC’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and ethical administration is seen as a critical pillar for sustaining electoral credibility and national development. The move not only strengthens public confidence in the electoral process but also demonstrates that the culture of good governance must begin from within, through the personal and collective commitment of those entrusted with safeguarding democratic systems.
