Section 208: Conduct of members of security services
Constitution of Zimbabwe
(1) Members of the security services must act in accordance with this Constitution and the law.
(2) Neither the security services nor any of their members may, in the exercise of their functions—
(a) act in a partisan manner;
(b) further the interests of any political party or cause;
(c) prejudice the lawful interests of any political party or cause; or
(d) violate the fundamental rights or freedoms of any person.
(3) Members of the security services must not be active members or office-bearers of any political party or organisation.
(4) Serving members of the security services must not be employed or engaged in civilian institutions except in periods of public emergency.
Insight: This section establishes the political neutrality of security services, requiring them to operate without partisan bias. It creates a clear separation between security forces and political activities, preventing the military, police, and other security entities from becoming tools of political power. This provision is particularly significant in Zimbabwe's context, where maintaining independent security services is essential for democratic governance and preventing authoritarian control.