Lawyers for Human Rights urged to take action against ZRP, Home Affairs minister over increasing loss of lives on Zimbabwean roads

Attention: Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights

Ref: Urgent Legal Action Needed Against the Minister of Home Affairs and Commissioner of Zimbabwe Republic Police for Endangering Public Lives on Zimbabwean Roads

Dear Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights,

I am writing to urgently request your intervention and legal support in taking action against the Minister of Home Affairs and the Commissioner of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in light of another tragic road accident, which claimed five lives and injured four others in Kuwadzana, as reported by in the media. The continued negligence by those tasked to protect our roads has led to an unbearable loss of life, turning our streets into death traps for Zimbabwean drivers, passengers and the public at large.

Our roads have become chaotic, overrun by unregulated “kombis” and “mushikashika” (illegal transporters), often rumoured to be owned and operated by uniformed police officers themselves. These unlicensed vehicles frequently operate with tinted windows and without number plates, contributing to a culture of lawlessness that endangers the lives of all Zimbabweans. With every unmarked vehicle and unregulated driver, our safety is further compromised and yet, the authorities appear indifferent.

Despite the rising death toll, there is little to no traffic enforcement, no issuance of penalty tickets and no accountability from those responsible. This alarming inaction by the police and their leadership reflects a disregard for Zimbabwean lives, and it appears to be happening with the implicit permission of those in power. The roads are plagued by dangerous drivers and unchecked violations, while the number of armed and unarmed robberies targeting motorists is climbing. This total absence of safety enforcement under the watchful eyes of the commissioner general and his team has effectively sentenced Zimbabweans to unnecessary death.

This is a crisis that demands immediate legal action. We need the responsible officials to be held to account for failing in their duty to safeguard our roads and protect the lives of innocent Zimbabweans. The tragic deaths in Kuwadzana and countless others are not mere statistics but they are a painful reminder of the price we are paying for systemic negligence and alleged corruption. I am reaching out to Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights in the hope that you will champion the cause of justice on behalf of the public and pursue a lawsuit that will demand change, accountability and reform.

Zimbabweans deserve safe roads, law enforcement that protects us, and a government that values our lives. Please, help us hold these leaders accountable for their actions and demand a safer Zimbabwe for everyone.

Yours sincerely,

Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi