Online Reporter
Sharon Jiyamwa
Herald Reporter
Pastor Elliot Bhakuche of Glory to Glory Ministries located in the high-density suburb of Mabvuku has been ordered by the Civil Court to pay US$100 per month in maintenance for his two children, aged 11 and seven, after their mother, Mrs Patience Bhakuche, applied for financial support.
Mrs Bhakuche, a vendor, had approached the court seeking US$300 per month, citing monthly expenses of US$50 for food, US$50 for clothing, US$100 for school fees, US$80 for medical expenses and US$20 for school uniforms.
She also told the court that the children had outstanding school fees amounting to US$580.
Mrs Bhakuche claimed that Pastor Bhakuche earns between US$700 and US$800 per month. However, he disputed the claim, telling the court that his income is irregular and ranges between US$20 and US$70 a month.
Pastor Bhakuche, who has no other dependants, offered to pay US$20 towards the children’s upkeep and a further US$20 towards their school fees, arguing that he could not afford the US$300 his children’s mother was claiming.
The court, however, ordered him to pay US$100 per month towards the children’s maintenance, effective at the end of each month, until the children turn 18 or become capable of supporting themselves.
In addition, he was further ordered to pay 50 percent of the children’s school fees and half of the outstanding school fees arrears by the end of the year.
The parties were advised that anyone dissatisfied with the ruling can reapply after three months or approach the High Court.
The court also warned that failure to comply with the maintenance order could result in the matter being reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police for enforcement.
