Man demands 50/50 split in responsibilities

Faith Mandizha

A HARARE man demanded a 50/50 split in responsibilities with his ex-wife at the Harare Civil Court yesterday.

Elias Nhoro was taken to court by his ex-wife, Dephine Tanyanyiwa, who was demanding US$50 a month and school fees, for their two children.

“I can’t afford her demands, Your Worship. I’m currently out of work, but I get called from time to time for part-time jobs.

“She is the one who is working, so it’s best if we split the responsibilities 50/50.

“I’ll pay fees and she does the rest or she pays fees and I pay maintenance,” he said.

Tanyanyiwa rejected the offer saying it was unworkable.

“Yes, he is currently out of work, but he should make an effort for our kids’ sake since the school term has already started.

“He has a truck I know of and he carries goods for people and realises about US$250 per month,” she said.

Magistrate Sharon Mashavira ordered Nhoro to pay US$50 and fees directly to the school.

“Kids can’t sit at home because you’re not formally employed. The court would have failed its job if it lets you walk away without contributing anything to the fees,” magistrate Mashavira said.