Harare, (New Ziana) – The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is drafting a comprehensive sexual harassment policy aimed at promoting professionalism, safeguarding employees and strengthening public confidence in the country’s justice system.
Addressing a judicial seminar, Chief Justice Elizabeth Gwaunza said this follows allegations of inappropriate conduct by some judges towards members of staff, including clerks and researchers.
She said the proposed policy would establish clear standards of conduct, create confidential reporting channels, protect complainants from victimisation and outline appropriate disciplinary measures for offenders.
“The Commission is developing a comprehensive sexual harassment policy for the Judicial Service. It will define prohibited conduct, establish safe and confidential reporting mechanisms, protect complainants against victimisation and provide for appropriate corrective action. That initiative deserves the full support of every judge.
“This is a matter of serious concern. Sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct are fundamentally inconsistent with the dignity, integrity and values of judicial office. They constitute an abuse of authority and a breach of the trust placed in the Judiciary. Such conduct cannot be excused, minimised or tolerated,” she said.
Chief Justice Gwaunza said while the policy would provide an institutional framework for preventing and addressing sexual harassment, it could not replace individual responsibility and ethical conduct. She urged judges to reflect not only on their own behaviour but also on the workplace culture within their chambers, stressing that respect and professionalism must remain hallmarks of the judiciary.
“The values we uphold in our treatment of others must also inform how we sustain ourselves for the demands of judicial office. It is therefore fitting that the programme includes a session on mental health and wellbeing,” she said.
She also encouraged judges to seek guidance from senior colleagues whenever they encounter difficult legal issues, noting that judicial independence should not be mistaken for professional isolation. According to the Chief Justice, constructive engagement with experienced colleagues can improve decision-making while preserving the independence of the courts.
“Judicial independence does not require professional isolation. The decision remains yours. A timely conversation with a colleague may clarify a difficult issue, expose an overlooked point or prevent an avoidable judicial error,” she said.
New Ziana
