Online Reporter
Lynnet Khaka
A MAN from Harare has been granted a reprieve from paying $200 in monthly maintenance after a magistrate ordered a paternity test to determine if he is the biological father of a four-year-old child.
Gracious Mateke had approached the court seeking US$200 per month for the upkeep of their child and a 50/50 split on the child’s school fees.
However, Honest Kanyemba offered to pay US$15, citing his dire financial situation. He, however, agreed to the 50-50 split.
“I do part-time jobs and get an estimate of US$100 per month,” Kanyemba told the court, arguing that Mateke’s claim was far beyond his means.
The case took a dramatic turn when Kanyemba questioned the child’s paternity. He revealed to the court that his relationship with Mateke had been fraught with infidelity, leading to his departure from the marital home.
“My ex-wife used to bring other men into our home and they would beat me up while declaring that they were Gracious’s husband,” Kanyemba claimed. “Because of this, I am not even sure if the child is mine.”
On the strength of this allegation, he formally requested a DNA test to establish paternity.
Presiding Magistrate Ms Hannah Fazilamed delivered a ruling that balanced the immediate needs of the child with the unresolved question of paternity.
Magistrate Fazilamed granted a temporary maintenance order of US$50 per month and ordered the couple to contribute equally in paying the child’s school fees.
The magistrate directed that Kanyemba to pay the US$50 for three months, pending the outcome of the DNA test.
The results are expected to determine Kanyemba’s long-term financial responsibilities.
