Outrage After Widow Was Sacked For Being HIV Positive

The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has initiated a probe into allegations that a Bulawayo-based security firm terminated a female employee solely due to her HIV-positive status.

The woman, a 40-year-old widow from Entumbane employed as a security guard, alleges she was dismissed after her employer demanded proof of her health condition following a planned medical visit to Gokwe. Although the company had initially granted her medical leave, officials later required documentation of her HIV status before ending her employment.

Sources suggest that the instruction to obtain her medical records came from an administrator at the company’s Bulawayo office, prompting concerns about potential discrimination and violations of employee rights. The ZHRC has taken on the case, with Chairperson Jessie Majome denouncing the company’s actions as possible breaches of fundamental human rights. Speaking from an international human rights conference in the Gambia, Majome labeled the dismissal as “unacceptable violations of fundamental rights,” underscoring the commission’s dedication to conducting a comprehensive investigation.

Majome highlighted that the alleged termination could constitute violations of several constitutional protections, including the right to personal dignity, protection against discrimination, freedom from degrading treatment, medical privacy, fair labour practices, and access to healthcare. She stated that the ZHRC will ensure accountability and explore potential remedies for the affected woman if the violations are substantiated.

As the investigation progresses, the security company at the heart of the controversy has not released any public statement. However, legal experts caution that if the allegations are proven, the firm could face significant legal and reputational repercussions under Zimbabwean law.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli