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Court Reporter
Two cousins who were involved in an incestuous relationship which resulted in the birth of a girl and current pregnancy will perform 630 hours of community service. The two’s fathers are brothers and traditionally are expected to treat each other as brother and sister.Ashley Feremenga (19) and her cousin Robson Feremenga (21) were living as husband and wife in Dzivaresekwa before neighbours alerted Ashley’s father Jonasi.
They were charged with having sexual intercourse within a prohibited degree of relationship as defined in section 75(2) (c) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act chapter 9:23.
The Act prohibits incestuous relationships.
The duo was convicted after their own plea of guilt when they appeared before Harare magistrate Mr Aidonia Masawi who sentenced them to a 36 month-imprisonment term.
The term was suspended on condition they perform 18 hours of community service with Ashley at Seke Primary School in Chitungwiza while Robson will be at Rujeko Clinic in Dzivaresekwa.
A further 18 months were suspended on condition they will not commit a similar offence in the next five years.
Prosecutor Mr Liberty Gono proved that on an unknown date in 2010, the pair fell in love and had sexual intercourse on several occasions.
As a result, they conceived a baby girl and continued with their relationship leading to Ashley getting pregnant for the second time.
Ashley’s father Jonasi only came to know about their relationship after being advised by his neighbours.
He filed a police report leading to their arrest.
Online Reporter