Michael Reza, the newly appointed chairperson of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), has affirmed his commitment to prioritizing the recovery of ill-gotten gains acquired through corrupt practices.
Reza articulated this pledge during media interactions on Wednesday, subsequent to his inauguration into the position by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House. Speaking to ZimLive, he emphasized his expertise in asset forfeiture and money laundering, acquired through training in South Africa, Botswana, and Malawi.
“This is a cause close to my heart,” Reza asserted. “We will relentlessly pursue criminals and ensure that the proceeds of their unlawful activities are reclaimed. It must be made clear that crime does not yield rewards.”
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He further stressed his determination to uphold thoroughness in ZACC’s investigations, stating, “No case will be closed unless all aspects of the crime have been meticulously addressed. By doing so, we increase our chances of securing convictions, thereby restoring public trust in ZACC and the judicial process.”
Reza’s appointment as chairperson comes alongside Fungayi Jessie Majome, who now assumes the role of chairperson of the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC). Reza succeeds Loice Matanda-Moyo, who transitioned to the position of Prosecutor General last October, while Majome takes over from Elasto Mugwadi.
Prior to his elevation, Michael Reza served as the deputy prosecutor general, bringing a wealth of experience to his new role. Meanwhile, Majome, a former Member of Parliament for the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and seasoned lawyer, held notable positions as Deputy Minister in the Women’s Affairs and Justice ministries during the unity government from 2009 to 2013.