The family of an 11-year-old girl, Ruvarashe Takamhanya, who was tragically killed in a road accident involving a US diplomat in Zimbabwe, is calling for the diplomat to return to the country and offer a personal apology. The incident occurred in June as Ruvarashe was on her way to school in Dema, located approximately 40km southeast of Harare.
Her parents acknowledge the diplomat’s diplomatic immunity but believe that an apology could aid in their healing process and provide them with a sense of closure. “Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the girl,” stated a spokesperson for the US State Department, emphasizing that their Harare embassy is working alongside local officials.
The diplomat, who has not yet reached out to the family, reportedly left the scene immediately after the accident, citing emotional distress. Ruvarashe’s mother, Juliana, expressed her heartbreak and a longing for a direct apology from the driver. “I wish he came directly so I could pour my heart out,” she conveyed. The family received $2,000 from the US embassy to assist with funeral expenses.
Despite the embassy’s involvement, the family feels neglected in their time of grief. “We are trying to be brave,” said her father, Silvester Takamhanya. The couple described their daughter, whose name means “flower of God” in Shona, as a sweet, kind, and intelligent child.
Local authorities have voiced their frustrations over the incident. According to police spokesman Paul Nyathi, the diplomat had expressed an intention to cooperate with the investigation but left Zimbabwe shortly after the accident, causing inquiries to stall.
Zimbabwe’s government officials have labeled the diplomat’s actions as unacceptable, suggesting his behavior has transformed him from a diplomat into a fugitive, as he seeks to avoid accountability. They emphasized the importance of diplomats adhering to the laws of their host country.
Meanwhile, the US State Department reaffirmed their commitment to engaging with local authorities throughout the investigation. Ruvarashe’s parents, both struggling in their daily lives, had aspirations for their daughter, who dreamed of becoming an air hostess. Her mother, who dropped out of school during her pregnancy, mourned the loss deeply, reflecting on their close bond and the dreams they shared for Ruvarashe’s future.
With hopes for compensation, the Takamhanya family primarily desires a sincere conversation with the driver to understand the circumstances surrounding their daughter’s untimely death. “He should come back and say sorry,” concluded Mr. Takamhanya, echoing the family’s need for closure in this heart-wrenching tragedy.
