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Advocacy and Legal Advice Centre (ALAC) Update
Transparency International – Zimbabwe (TI-Z)
June 04, 2009

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On the 1st of April 2009 Transparency International - Zimbabwe (TI-Z) opened its Advocacy and Legal Advice Centre (ALAC) to provide citizens with a forum to report corruption, propose solutions and seek advice. ALAC has two main components; free legal aid provision to victims and witnesses of corruption and advocacy for social and institutional reform for combating corruption. Every month, ALAC publishes an update of corruption trends as reported by the public accompanied by an analysis of the given statistics. The purpose is not to name and shame any individuals, entities or sectors but, it is hoped that this will prompt a self reflection process which leads to institutional and systemic reforms at institutional level, and a change in value systems to more ethical and moral conduct a personal level.

At a political policymaking and governance level it is hoped that the magnitude of the problem is appreciated and its prioritization raised in the development and recovery agenda. TI Z also notes from scanning media reports that despite the magnitude of the corruption problem and its implications there are very few public officials and politicians who prioritise the issue of creating corruption free environments in their speeches, in light of the unprecedented poverty levels and the humanitarian crisis, and the rising crime in urban areas, in view of how this impacts on efforts to attract foreign aid and investment into the country.

Analysis of corruption complaints

ALAC continues to receive corruption complaints and from the time of its launch on March 28th 2009 to date a total of 312 complaints have been received. The public has therefore continued to show eagerness in the fight against corruption.

Gender

Most of these complaints are being reported by male clients as men account for 75% of the complainants, while complaints received from female clients constitute 25% of the total number of complaints. TI-Z is very concerned about this trend as it shows that women either fear victimization and reprisal or they have not fully appreciated ALAC services. A sample survey in 2004 commissioned by TI-Z revealed that women are more vulnerable than men to corruption and its effects. For this reason women are encouraged to participate in the fight against corruption. However, it is interesting to note that women have participated more than men in ALAC's community education meetings and are now showing greater interest to participate in the anti-corruption campaign.

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