23 CHAPTER 2 NATIONAL OBJECTIVES 2.1 Objectives to guide all institutions and agencies of State and Government (1) The objectives set out in this Chapter guide the State and all institutions and agencies of government at every level, in formulating and implementing laws and policy decisions that will lead to the establishment and promotion of a just, free and democratic society in which people can enjoy prosperous, happy and fulfilled lives. (2) Regard must be had to the objectives set out in this Chapter when interpreting the State’s obligations under this Constitution and any other law. 2.2 Good governance (1) The State must adopt and implement policies and legislation to develop efficiency, competence, accountability, transparency, personal integrity and financial probity in Government at every level and in every public institution, and in particular— (a) appointments to public offices must be made primarily on the basis of merit; (b) measures must be taken to expose, combat and eradicate all forms of corruption and abuse of power by those holding political and other public offices. (2) The State must ensure that all institutions and agencies of government at every level, in particular Commissions and other bodies established by or under this Constitution, are provided with adequate resources and facilities to enable them to carry out their functions conscientiously, effectively, fairly, impartially, honestly and efficiently. 2.3 National unity, peace and stability The State and all institutions and agencies of government at every level, and all citizens of Zimbabwe, must promote national unity, peace and stability. 2.4 Fostering of fundamental rights and freedoms The State must take all practical measures to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in Chapter 4 and to promote their full realisation and fulfilment. 2.5 Foreign policy (1) The foreign policy of Zimbabwe must be based on the following principles— (a) the promotion and protection of the national interests of Zimbabwe; (b) respect for international law; (c) peaceful co-existence with other nations; and (d) the settlement of international disputes by peaceful means. (2) The State must promote regional and pan-African cultural, economic and political cooperation and integration and must participate in international and regional organisations that stand for peace and the well-being and progress of the region, the continent and humanity.

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