Addressing a police pass-out parade in Harare last week Attorney General (AG) Johannes Tomana used the opportunity to reassure the nation that his office is independent, apolitical and is above all run professionally in accordance with the laws of the land. Despite at one time publicly declaring his support for President Robert Mugabes Zanu (PF) party a maladroit gesture by an apolitical AG if you ask us Tomana said that the law is a complex subject and that we mere mortals often misconstrue simple differences in interpretation of the law for bias on the part of his good office.
To use his words Tomana said: “Let me categorically state that the AGs Office is highly competent, independent and shall continue to uphold and apply the laws of the country without fear or favour.”
Well said Mr AG. But our advice, sir, is that you spare us the details of the complexities of the law and just go ahead and demonstrate the independence and professionalism of your office.
And this is how to do it: begin by prosecuting — without fear or favour — all those hired thugs masquerading as land hungry peasants who are invading farms and disrupting food production even as relief agencies warn that hunger will worsen in the coming months.
When you are done locking up the farm looters at Chikurubi, then go after the gang of kidnappers and torturers in the CIO, army and police who abducted and tortured Jestina Mukoko and the others last year.
As you suggested there will always be differences in the way we interpret the law not least because of the varying levels of understanding of this very complex subject. But with regards to torture, we can assure you that the entire nation understands that the law of the land prohibits degrading and inhuman treatment of citizens.
Once the two tasks referred to above are accomplished we urge you to turn your attention to that felon called Joseph Mwale who has somehow eluded justice despite the High Court recommending many moons ago that he be arrested and tried for the gruesome murder of MDC activists, Tichaona Chiminya and Talent Mabika, nine years ago.
He remains in the employ of the state but for some reason the police cannot locate him.
With due respect, sir, we believe that for as long as the matters listed above have not been attended to you have absolutely no reason to claim to be independent or professional unless, of course, if such a claim is made on the 1st of April. Its good to have a laugh from time to time, even under our distressed circumstances.
Post published in: Editor: Wilf Mbanga