By Tiyani Hahlani
Centre News Hub
HARARE- The deaths of three people in a raw sewage-filled pit in Budiriro 3 have ignited demands for a human rights investigation, with residents arguing that the tragedy exposes not only dangerous infrastructure neglect but also possible violations of constitutional rights.
Under the banner of the Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA), residents have petitioned the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths and determine whether authorities failed in their duty to protect the victims’ rights to life, dignity and a clean environment.
The petition follows the discovery of three bodies in a sewer pond that residents allege had been left open during public works, creating a hazard in the densely populated suburb.
For many residents, the tragedy was more than a fatal accident. It was a stark reminder of the dangers posed by deteriorating infrastructure and what they describe as a growing disregard for public safety.
CHRA Director Reuben Akili said residents were seeking answers and accountability over the incident.
“The residents of Budiriro under the banner of the Combined Harare Residents Association have lodged a petition registering their displeasure over the deaths of three people in a pit filled with raw sewage.”
“We believe there is a need for the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission to investigate any possibility of human rights violations arising from this tragedy. As human beings, the victims had the right to life and the right to a clean environment, said Akili.
Akili also said the residents’ association wanted the Commission’s findings to be made public so that they could help shape future human rights and public safety policies.
In its petition, CHRA urged the ZHRC to conduct an urgent investigation into the Budiriro tragedy, establish the extent of any human rights violations and determine whether the deceased persons’ rights to life, dignity and personal security were adequately protected.
The association also called for the adoption of a National Public Infrastructure Safety Policy, mandatory health and safety measures for public works projects and stronger accountability mechanisms for negligence resulting in injury or loss of life.
Among the recommendations are compulsory risk assessments, safety barriers, warning signage, community awareness programmes and emergency response plans for sewer, water and other infrastructure projects.
CHRA further urged the Commission to recommend the establishment of an independent safety compliance and monitoring mechanism for projects undertaken by local authorities and contractors.
“The residents of Budiriro 3, Harare and Zimbabwe at large deserve transparency, accountability and the assurance that all necessary measures will be taken to protect human life and uphold constitutional rights,” reads part of the petition.
