I only have US$2 your Worship, former MP tells court

Lovemore Meya Court Reporter
FORMER Chitungwiza South MDC-T legislator Misheck Shoko has fallen on hard times and only had US$2 on his person when he appeared before a Chitungwiza magistrate yesterday charged with failure to pay maintenance.
He told the court that besides the $2, he had no other savings.
Shoko appeared before magistrate Mr Kudakwashe Jarabini charged with contravening the Maintenance Act after he accrued US$800 in maintenance arrears.

He said he was surviving from hand to mouth.
“Your Worship, I am no longer employed and I am now surviving on US$200 that I get from rentals. I have nine children and two houses. One of the houses is occupied by the complainant (Martha Mabhugu). I have only US$2 in my pockets with no savings,” he said.

Shoko pleaded guilty to the charge. Magistrate Jarabini gave Shoko a three-month prison term which he suspended on condition he clears the US$800 arrears in US$200 monthly instalments.

Last year, Shoko was granted a downward variation from US$300 to US$100 after he told the court that the dissolution of Parliament had left him broke.

This did not help as Shoko still failed to pay maintenance for his three children. Ms Pauline Chamunorwa prosecuted.