Prosecutors cry foul over constant threats whilst working under poor conditions
Prosecutors at the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) are crying foul over continuous threats by the leadership of non-tolerance of corruption, despite them earning low salaries and enduring difficult working conditions.
Prosecutors get a US$ allowance of less than $300, whilst in contrast, the top chefs at the institution cruise in top-of-the-range vehicles and receive hefty allowances.
Conditions of service for Prosecutors in the country have not been improved for many years. Despite being thensharp end of the justice system, Prosecutors in Zimbabwe are ranked as the lowest paid in the region, if not the world over.
NPA sources from across the country who spoke to The ObserverZim on condition of anonymity revealed that fellow legal officers at some stations are working squashed up in single offices and have to resort to ‘hot-seating’ to carry out their duties.
“We have to give each other chances to sit and work at a single desk, whilst others stand waiting for the desk to be free,” said one prosecutor who asked not to be named.
“Most Prosecutors have to give each other chances to use one desk whilst others stand, stripping prosecutors of their dignity,” he said.
The sources said this has not stopped the Prosecutor General, in a recent interview in the Sunday Mail dated November 24, 2024 from making threats that corruption will not be tolerated despite the failure by the Prosecuting boss to address the poor salaries Prosecutors are taking home and the poor working conditions they endure.
The prosecutors said that it is now difficult for them to pay school fees and rentals because of their low income.
“It is now difficult for us to pay school fees and rentals as our income is of no significance,” said another prosecutor who declined to be named.
Said yet another Prosecutor: “It is clear that the justice system in Zimbabwe is now exposed due to our poor working conditions.”
Prosecutors often have to prosecute wealthy individuals facing various criminal charges who are willing to stop at nothing for their freedom, oft times resorting to under the desk techniques to secure their freedom. From armed robbers to petty criminals all tempt legal officers with money to sway cases in their favour.
The poor remuneration and working conditions has made the NPA ripe for a looming mass exodus, contrary to what the leadership of the National Prosecuting Authority has said in the media.
Many in the NPA are saying the leadership has failed to address the plight of Prosecutors, whilst expecting high performances despite very low remuneration.
