Section 221: Commissioner-General of Police
Constitution of Zimbabwe
(1) The Police Service is under the command of a Commissioner-General of Police appointed by the President after consultation with the Minister responsible for the police.
(2) The Commissioner-General of Police is appointed for a five-year term which may be renewed once.
(3) A person who has served as Commissioner-General of Police may not be appointed to the command of any other security service.
(4) The Commissioner-General of Police must exercise his or her command in accordance with any general written policy directives given by the Minister responsible for the police acting under the authority of the President.
Key Insight: Commissioner-General of Police
This constitutional provision establishes civilian control over the police force through a carefully designed command structure. The dual requirement of presidential appointment and ministerial consultation creates a check on executive power, while the term limits (maximum of two 5-year terms) prevent entrenchment of police leadership. The prohibition on leading other security services after serving as Commissioner-General prevents concentration of security power in one individual's hands. These measures collectively aim to balance effective policing with democratic accountability.