The problem with advertising is that first it (i) alerts the perpetrator/offender (ii) secondly it encourages destruction of evidence (iii) thirdly it may lead to interference with witnesses, victim and even the targeted perpetrator. In our considered view, the purpose of advertising an investigation of a crime seems unreasonable. Taking a cue from other polities, Nepal for example, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission there was empowered to conduct investigations, search operations and seize objects or documents “without giving any notice”11, provided there is reasonable conviction that the documents contain evidence. Therefore, Heal Zimbabwe recommends that (i) no advertisements should be done prior to the commencement of investigations in order to protect evidence, protect the victims/complainant and the perpetrator. We also applaud the publication of public advertisements only after the completion of an investigation. This helps in promoting transparency and it contributes to the overall success of the Commission. Section 7(2) of the NPRC Bill provides a mechanism for citizens to lodge complains against government officers/authorities which is indeed commendable. It states that “any person affected by conflict arising out of any action or omission on the part of an authority or person, may make a written complaint to the Commission requesting it to investigate such action or omission.” However, it is important to consider that the Bill explicitly indicates how complaints against public officials should be done. For instance, numerous victims might - have complaints against the police for instance. Previously, police officers in Zimbabwe have been accused of acting in a partisan manner and acting in the interests of known political parties. The Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission Act of Kenya empower the Commission to “summon any serving or retired public officer to appear in person before it, to produce a document or information considered relevant12.” On the other hand, the Nepalese Commission was empowered to recommend suspension of a public officer for three months pending investigations. Notably, the phrase “written complaint” discriminates against those who cannot read and write or both. This means it is important to regulate how Commissioners will handle complaints against public officers. As HZT, we recommend that the Bill should explicitly outline what the complainants (victims) will do when lodging complaints against public officers and what the Commission will do to the accused public officials to commence investigations. Clarity in terms of procedure, it may also be important to signpost what the commission should do to public officers found guilty. With regards to the phrase “written complaint,” the Bill should allow written or oral submissions. This recommendation is made cognisant of the rural folks whose literacy skills could be limited. 8. Manner of Conducting Investigations It is positive that Section 8 of the NPRC Bill grants the Commission power to issue summons, ask questions, request disclosure of any information and request the assistance of the police during an investigation. It also promotes confidentiality of information by regulating circumstances under 11 Ordinance on Investigation of Disappeared Persons, Truth and Reconciliation Commission: Section 14 (3 & 4). 12 Kenya: The Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission Act No. 6 of 2008 page 12 5