Police Accountability: Application of Corporate Governance Principles and Business Ethics to The Zimbabwe Republic Police: Case Study of Midlands and Mashonaland East Provinces: April, 2013- April, 2014

Abstract

This study investigated the application of corporate governance and business ethics principles to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers in charge of police stations seeking to achieve the following objectives: ascertain ZRP accountability; identify public's perceptions of ZRP and investigate effectiveness of ZRP corporate governance monitoring tools. The study employed qualitative research paradigm and case study design. Data were collected through observations, and focus group and personal interviews. The study found that there was lack of congruence on the police and public understanding of police role due to ineffective communication resulting in inappropriate application of performance management tools resulting in accountability being compromised. It concluded that there was a poor application of corporate governance principles and business ethics in the ZRP at Police station level and recommended improved interaction with the public and realistic evaluation to avoid a distorted performance picture.