Section 258: Establishment and functions of National Prosecuting Authority
Constitution of Zimbabwe
There is a National Prosecuting Authority which is responsible for instituting and undertaking criminal prosecutions on behalf of the State and discharging any functions that are necessary or incidental to such prosecutions.
Brief Insight: Establishment and functions of National Prosecuting Authority
This section creates Zimbabwe's public prosecution service (NPA), which serves as the state's legal representative in criminal cases. The NPA functions independently from the police and courts, maintaining prosecutorial discretion to determine which cases to pursue based on evidence and public interest considerations. This structure follows common constitutional practice of separating investigation (police) from prosecution (NPA) to ensure proper checks and balances in the criminal justice system.