Moffat Mungazi
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
The Government, through the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, is urging communities to bolster their understanding of the Marriages Act.
Speaking at a public awareness meeting in Zimunya, on the outskirts of Mutare, aimed at educating residents on the Act’s provisions, Deputy Chairperson of the Law Development Commission, Mr Rex Shana emphasised the importance of citizens being aware of their rights and responsibilities within marriage.
Mr Shana warned attendees about the potential risks faced by spouses whose names are not included on property documents, particularly in the event of separation.
The meeting sought to enlighten locals on the Marriages Act [Chapter 5:17], with Mr Shana highlighting the significance of informed decision-making in marital relationships.
“The law says divorces are only done by the courts. If your name is not on the title deeds, council documents or cattle cards, the other party can legally do anything with that property,” he warned.
He also urged residents to become ambassadors of the law in their communities.
“We urge you to be our ambassadors and take the knowledge you have gained here back to your communities and share it widely,” he said, also stressing the important role of the ministry’s legal aid directorate, urging rural community members to use their services in the case that they need clarification on some legal issues.
“They provide vital legal services to those who cannot afford private representation. If you have issues requiring legal advice, our team is here to guide you, and in some cases they may even assist with court proceedings,” he said.
Mr Shana also encouraged residents to use such platforms to ask questions and seek clarity.
The ministry is expected to continue rolling out similar awareness campaigns across the country.
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