adminClara Mudefi
A MUTARE woman’s quest to have the court grant her $420 maintenance hit a snag after the magistrate only granted her $60 for three children last Wednesday.Alice Sipanana and Josphat Pesi appeared before Mrs Sharon Chipanga, with the former demanding $420 as maintenance for the three children they sired together. The children are aged 13, nine and seven years. Sipanana argued that Josphat had completely turned his back on his family.
“Your Worship, I want Josphat to pay maintenance of $420 for the up-keep of his children. I am a mere vendor getting $70 per month. Josphat is a carpenter.
“He can manage to pay school fees, buy food and clothes for the children,” said Alice.
Josphat dismissed Alice’s claims that he was a carpenter and said he had relocated to his rural home where he was earning a living through market gardening.
“I grow and sell tomatoes and vegetables in the rural areas. In good days, I get $30 per month and can afford to pay $20 or $30 for the children,” said Josphat.
Alice refused to accept Josphat’s offer saying the money was too little. However, Mrs Chipanga said the money paid as maintenance is determined by the man’s monthly earnings.
“Josphat is claiming that he earns $30 per month, but I now order him to pay $60 for the three children effective from September 30,” ruled Mrs Chipanga.
Online Reporter