The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has launched an investigation into a Bulawayo-based security firm accused of dismissing a female employee due to her HIV-positive status. The 40-year-old widow from Entumbane, who worked as a security guard, claims that after receiving approval for medical leave to visit Gokwe, the company demanded proof of her health condition. The firm later terminated her employment after insisting on documentation about her HIV status.
Sources suggest that the directive for the medical records came from an administrator at the company’s Bulawayo office, raising concerns about discrimination and violations of the employees’ rights. ZHRC Chairperson Jessie Majome has condemned the company’s actions, describing them as potential violations of fundamental human rights. Speaking at an international human rights conference in the Gambia, Majome called the dismissal an unacceptable infringement of the woman’s rights and assured that a thorough investigation would take place.
Majome highlighted that the dismissal might violate multiple constitutional rights, including personal dignity, protection from discrimination, medical privacy, and fair labor practices. She emphasized that the ZHRC would ensure accountability and explore possible legal remedies for the affected woman if the allegations are proven true.
At this stage, the security company has not publicly addressed the claims. However, legal experts warn that if the allegations are substantiated, the company could face serious legal consequences and significant damage to its reputation.
