By A Correspondent

Bright Madhuyu, the coordinator of the Bikita Residents and Rate Payers Association (BIRRA), is living in fear after security agents from the Central Intelligence Organization (CIO) threatened him at his home. The threat followed his efforts to demand accountability and transparency from the Bikita Rural District Council (RDC).

Madhuyu had requested a government-sanctioned report from the Hungwe Commission of Inquiry regarding corruption allegations at the Bikita RDC. These accusations stem from two years ago, when top officials purchased high-end Toyota GD6 vehicles without government approval and formed a private company, Hanyani, to operate council business illegally.

After BIRRA raised the issue on their social media platforms, following unsuccessful attempts to obtain the report from the council, Madhuyu was confronted by security officers who threatened him with unspecified actions.

“They came to my house last night after the issue sparked heated debate on our platforms and threatened me. I am scared and living in fear,” said Madhuyu.

This is not the first time Madhuyu has been targeted. Last November, security agents harassed him after BIRRA raised concerns about the exploitation of local resources by Chinese-owned Sino Mine and Bikita Lithium Mine, which were accused of doing little to benefit the community.

BIRRA leaders also report receiving anonymous calls from individuals claiming to be from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) using private numbers.

Efforts to obtain comments from the CIO and ZRP officials in Masvingo were unsuccessful.

The threats and intimidation against Madhuyu and other BIRRA leaders are a grave concern for the safety of human rights defenders who advocate for quality service delivery while fighting corruption and demanding transparency and accountability.