Security Guard Fired Over HIV Status, Prompting Human Rights Probe

A 40-year-old female security guard in Bulawayo has reportedly been dismissed after her employer allegedly forced her to disclose her HIV-positive status, sparking outrage and prompting an investigation by the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC).

The woman, a resident of Entumbane, attended a routine medical review at a Gokwe clinic, but her employer, Seasec Security Company, allegedly demanded proof of her HIV status before dismissing her.

Despite initially granting her leave, the company reportedly forced her to submit confidential medical records, a demand now under scrutiny by human rights authorities.

According to Herald, Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission Chairperson Jessie Majome, who was in Gambia for the 83rd Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, condemned the company’s actions.

She described the employer’s conduct as outrageous and intolerable, emphasizing that the alleged dismissal violates multiple constitutional rights.

Majome argued that the company’s actions violated constitutional protections, including Section 51, which guarantees the right to inherent dignity, ensuring individuals are treated with respect regardless of health status.

She noted that Section 56, which safeguards equality and non-discrimination, was also likely breached, as firing an employee based on medical status undermines fundamental labor rights.

Additionally, she cited Section 53, which prohibits inhuman and degrading treatment, arguing that forcing someone to disclose private health information constitutes psychological abuse.

She further cited Section 57(e), which protects privacy rights, making it unlawful for employers to compel individuals to reveal confidential medical records.

Majome stressed that Section 65, which outlines fair labour practices and safe working conditions, ensures employees are protected from unjust termination.

Finally, she noted that Section 76 guarantees access to basic healthcare services, a right that should not be denied based on employment decisions.

She confirmed that ZHRC is actively investigating the matter, aiming to enforce accountability and seek redress for human rights violations.