Chronicle Editor
Robin Muchetu, Senior Reporter
WHEN Mr Maurice Peterson (49) was involved in a case of gender-based violence with his wife, Ms Thandiwe Sibanda (44) that resulted in the death of their baby that was strapped on Ms Sibanda’s back, the world found it hard to forgive him.
He was arrested, charged with murder and given a 30-year prison sentence.
Amid the legal processes, their families could not hide their misgiving over his abusive nature and culture of violence against his wife. They advised her to terminate her marriage.
Ms Sibanda, however, would have none of that. Pressure was exerted with some even suggesting that she would be the next victim. She did not listen, choosing to stay put.
Her story is one that aptly fits the aphorism “love conquers all.”
She forgave her husband and took care of their three children while he was serving prison time.
Remarkably, when Mr Peterson was released three months ago, she accepted him back into their home in Queens Park East without hesitation.
Hers is a story that embodies forgiveness and resilience.
“I was fortunate to have her support. I returned a changed man, striving to have a better presence for my family. That fatherly love and protection is what I intend to provide,” he remarked.
Their love story is one that some might find hard to accept, given the tragic circumstances of their past, but it demonstrates the power of love in overcoming adversity.
“Despite what happened, we didn’t separate. I was on bail for about four years before my sentence and during that time, we even had more children. There was something profound between us that can’t be easily explained,” Mr Peterson reflected.
Recalling that fateful day, Mr Peterson expressed his desire to move forward and not dwell on the past, which continues to bring sorrow.
“I don’t want to relive those moments; I wish to leave them behind for the sake of my family. It’s easy for others to talk about it, but it’s painful when you’re involved. I’ve learned that violence and anger ultimately lead to regret,” he shared.
Ms Sibanda acknowledged the challenge of processing their son’s death but emphasised the strength of their marriage.
“Losing a son in such circumstances was incredibly difficult. We accepted our situation and adjusted over time. Our marriage remained intact, despite outside opinions and pressure. With patience, we moved forward and even welcomed two more children,” she said.
Reflecting on their reconciliation, she emphasised the commitment that comes with marriage.
“Marriage requires patience. What if I had chosen to remarry while he was in prison? I am thankful for our church Bishop, who guided us through this journey. Even after his release, we underwent counselling to ensure a smooth transition back into family life,” she explained.
Mr Peterson is a multi-talented artiste with skills in music, acting and more. He honed his talents while in prison and hopes to collaborate with established artistes to further his music career.
“I discovered my passion for singing and playing the guitar behind bars and I’m eager to share my talent with the world. I admire artistes like Jah Prayzah, who inspire me with their success stories,” he said.
A qualified fitter and turner, Mr Peterson expressed a desire to return to his trade but lacks the necessary tools.
“I can repair cars from home but need tools to get started again. My children are relying on me; my eldest is finishing teacher training and the others are still in school. I humbly seek donations to help build my working space,” he said.
Mr Peterson shared his harrowing journey of alcoholism, drug abuse and GBV that culminated in the devastating loss of their child.
“My arrest stemmed from a case of GBV with my wife. We had a fight that tragically involved our child, who succumbed to injuries sustained during that altercation. I was charged with murder with intent and sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2011, serving 12 and a half years,” Mr Peterson explained.
Thanks to a Presidential pardon, he was released in April 2024, a turn of events he attributes to divine intervention.
His time in prison became transformative.
“Before my incarceration, I was violent, abusing drugs and alcohol, filled with anger. But in prison, I found Christ. I realised that forgiving myself was essential to forgiving others. I committed to changing my life for the better, not just for myself but for those around me. I even began helping others in prison by providing motivation,” he stated.
Mr Peterson said his violence was rooted in unresolved trauma from his upbringing in a violent household, where he experienced abuse from family members.
This past created a cycle of anger that he unknowingly projected onto his wife.
“I grew up in a violent environment with family members who fought constantly. My anger was deeply ingrained in me, exacerbated by drug and alcohol use, leading to my abusive behaviour towards my wife,” he confessed.
Their story is one of redemption, perseverance and the enduring strength of love amidst hardship.
derick.khumalo