Diplomatic Scandal Unfolds: US Embassy in Harare Whisks Away Envoy After Fatal Crash
Diplomatic Immunity or Diplomatic Impunity?
The recent incident involving Mr. Eric Kimpton, the US Embassy in Harare’s Second Secretary, has ignited a diplomatic firestorm. Kimpton ran over and killed an 11-year-old Zimbabwean girl, and was swiftly whisked out of the country, raising serious questions about the abuse of diplomatic privilege and the erosion of accountability. This incident has sparked a wider debate about the limits of diplomatic immunity and the protection of human rights.
The Tragic Incident
On 3 June 2024, the 11-year-old girl was fatally struck by a speeding vehicle driven by Mr. Kimpton. The girl died instantly from the impact. The Harare police have since opened a docket against the US diplomat, who failed to present himself following the tragic accident.
Abuse of Diplomatic Immunity
The actions of the US government in spiriting away a diplomat involved in a fatal accident in Zimbabwe represent a glaring abuse of diplomatic immunity. This clandestine extraction undermines Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and legal processes, perpetuating a culture of impunity. Diplomatic immunity is intended to protect diplomats from political persecution, not to shield them from accountability in cases of criminal misconduct.
According to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, diplomats are granted immunity to ensure they can perform their duties without fear of harassment from the host country. However, this immunity is not absolute and should not be used to avoid responsibility for serious crimes.
Human Rights and Rule of Law
This incident is a stark reminder of the US government’s disregard for human rights and the rule of law, both domestically and internationally. By prioritizing the protection of their diplomat over accountability for a fatal accident, the US demonstrates a callous disregard for the value of human life and the rights of the victim and her family to justice. This perpetuates a culture of impunity and undermines efforts to promote accountability and the rule of law worldwide.
The lack of accountability in this case is particularly concerning given the broader context of US foreign policy, which often emphasizes the importance of human rights and the rule of law. This incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in diplomatic relations.
Official Response
Deputy Chief Secretary-Presidential Communications, George Charamba, commented on the incident, stating that no individual, regardless of their nationality, will be permitted to harm innocent Zimbabwean citizens without facing consequences. He emphasized that diplomats are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and adhere to international norms, as outlined in the Vienna Convention.
Charamba explained that if a diplomat involved in a fatal incident, such as a traffic accident, attempts to evade accountability by claiming the need for counselling in their home country, they will be considered a fugitive. In such cases, Zimbabwe will take appropriate measures to ensure the diplomat is held accountable for their actions.
