Annexure 4 Final Draft Guiding Principle for Transitional Justice Policy and Practice in Zimbabwe 1.0 Justice and Accountability 1. Criminal Prosecutions a. Prosecutorial initiatives must be underpinned by a clear political commitment to accountability that understands the complex goals involved. b. Initiatives should have a clear strategy that addresses the challenges of a large universe of cases, many suspects, limited resources and competing demands. c. Initiatives should be endowed with the necessary capacity and technical ability to investigate and prosecute the crimes in question, understanding their complexity and the need for specialized approaches. d. Initiatives should pay particular attention to victims, ensuring (as far as possible) their meaningful participation, and provide adequate protection of witnesses. e. Initiatives should be executed with a clear understanding of the applicable law and an appreciation of trial management skills, as well as a strong commitment to due process. 2. Amnesties must have strict guidelines a. While acknowledging the role of amnesties in persuading perpetrators to cooperate, these must not apply to perpetrators of international crimes, crimes against humanity, murders and sexually related crimes. 38