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Cynthia Dube, Court Reporter
A MAN from Bulawayo’s Gwabalanda suburb yesterday said his wife beats him up sometimes using a belt and when he reports the domestic violence to the police, they ridicule him.
Walter Banda said this when he appeared in the Maintenance Court.
He told magistrate Mr Manasa Musiiwa that sometimes his wife Ms Constance Tinhayi beats him up and has scars emanating from the beatings.
Banda’s wife dragged him to court demanding $180 maintenance for the upkeep of two children aged seven and four.
Banda interjected before Ms Tinhayi could explain why she needed the money saying she was abusive.
“This woman beats me up almost every day and today she dragged me to court thinking that l can give her my money. This is ridiculous! Last week, l was working night shift and I didn`t sleep at home, instead of her asking for my whereabouts she clobbered me with fists in front of our children,” he said.
He said he reported the matter to the police who laughed at him.
Banda said there is no peace in his home due to his wife’s violent nature.
“This other time l felt like l was going to die when she was hitting me with a belt and l ended up biting her on the chest to free myself. Your worship l can even show you scars as evidence. She is an abusive woman,” said Banda.
He said he cannot afford to pay $180 and his wife was aware of that.
“Your worship, she knows that after all deductions my salary is $44 per month. I have deductions for medical aid, funeral policy and a loan. Where can l get $180 if l may ask?” he asked.
Mr Musiiwa ordered Banda to pay $70 per month for the upkeep of his minor children.
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