THE Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission's (Zacc) initial enthusiasm to investigate the Zecgate scandal has seemingly given way to selective prosecution, raising concerns about the commission's commitment to upholding its constitutional mandate.
While Zacc's eagerness to interview Wicknell Chivayo, Moses Mpofu, and Mike Chimombe was commendable, the subsequent shift in focus away from key players like Zec, its chairperson Priscilla Chigumba, Chivayo, the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), and the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) is perplexing.
Leaked documents suggested their widespread involvement in the scandal, with Chivayo and company inflating prices for election materials, and Zec approving the deal despite knowledge of the excessive prices.
The inflated prices are staggering, with an HP server-Proliant DL380 Gen 10 supplied at US$1,26 million, while the same product costs a mere US$4,695 on Amazon.
It beggars belief that such a deal was approved, and raises questions about the complicity of Zec and its chairperson.
Citizens are rightly skeptical about Zacc's motives, with many believing that Mpofu and Chimombe are being punished for exposing the scandal.
This perception undermines trust in Zacc's ability to discharge its duties fairly and without fear or favour. As a constitutional body established to fight corruption, Zacc must remember that no one is above the law, not even the President.
Zacc must refocus its attention on all individuals and institutions implicated in the scandal, including Zec, Chigumba, the OPC, and the CIO.
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Anything less would be a betrayal of its constitutional mandate and a mockery of the fight against corruption. The people of Zimbabwe demand a thorough and impartial investigation, and Zacc must deliver.
The Zecgate scandal is a stark reminder of the rampant abuse of public funds in Zimbabwe. While citizens are burdened with multiple taxes, government officials recklessly squander resources without accountability.
The misappropriated funds could have been used to build essential infrastructure like schools and healthcare facilities in rural areas, improving the lives of many.
Instead, alleged culprits roam free, enjoying luxuries funded by stolen public money. This is not only disturbing but also a slap in the face of taxpayers.
The deafening silence from President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the country's chief executive, is equally concerning. His lack of comment on this scandal raises questions about his administration's commitment to fighting corruption.
Chivayo's alleged corruption and close ties to President Mnangagwa raises troubling questions about cronyism and entrenched impunity.
Let us not forget that Chivayo was also given US$5 million advance payment by Zesa Holdings for a solar project in Gwanda, but failed to deliver, leaving a trail of broken promises and wasted resources.
The people of Zimbabwe demand more from their leaders. It is time for accountability, transparency, and justice to prevail. The era of impunity must end, and public funds must be protected and used for the greater good. We demand a comprehensive probe into both Goatgate and Zecgate scandals, rejecting distractions and sideshows.
