adminMidlands Bureau
Bulawayo High Court Judge, Justice Maxwell Takuva, has recommended that a 34-year-old Chirumanzu man who killed his father in 2009 for no clear reason be examined by two medical doctors while in custody.George Rutanhira, of Mazo Village under Headman Rutanhira in Chirumanzu, killed his father, Makufa Rutanhira, allegedly for penning cattle against his will.
The late Makufa was 66-years-old when he met his death in 2009. Justice Takuva said the court was convinced there was an element of mental illness in George Rutanhira’s actions.
He said the crime appeared to have no motive. Said Justice Takuva: “The crime committed by Rutanhira is motiveless. The accused will be remanded in custody and be examined by two medical practitioners …”
Shepard Mafa, for the State, said on March 14, 2009, George was tasked to herd cattle in the grazing land. At one stage, the cattle strayed into a neighbour’s field and destroyed crops. His father subsequently collected the cattle and put them in the kraal and headed home to have his lunch.
The court heard that as he was entering the kitchen to collect his food, his son arrived holding a log and started accusing him of penning the cattle, and announcing his intention to assault him.
Mafa said sensing danger, the senior Rutanhira fled with his son chasing after him. After some distance, George caught up with his frightened father and struck him once on the back of the head with the log and he fell to the ground.
George struck him again on the head while he was down. Mafa said a neighbour arrived at the scene and disarmed George but this did not deter him as he kicked his helpless father with a booted foot once in the abdomen and in the face.
George went on to pick a stone which he wanted to strike his father with, but it was snatched away by his mother who had also arrived at the scene. George then left and headed for the homestead.
The court heard that the late Rutanhira was ferried home in a wheelbarrow but he died the same day.
Online Reporter