Online Reporter
Danisa Masuku
AGE is just a number but heartbreak hits at any age, even in Esigodini where a man is accused of dumping his wife for their maid.
Tears flowed at the Bulawayo Civil Court as Betty Ndlovu, 56, told magistrate Challenge Mahembe that her husband, Abednico Ndlovu (63), had gone rogue after falling for their younger maid earlier this year.
The age of the maid was not revealed in court.
According to Betty, the drama started when they employed the maid. Instead of sweeping floors, the maid allegedly swept Abednico right off his feet. He packed his bags and moved in with her at Cowdray Park, leaving poor Betty to pick up the emotional rubble.
“Your worship, I’m living in fear,” sobbed Betty. “Last week my husband came home, insulted me in front of the grandchildren and beat me up. He even said he would burn me alive in my bedroom hut.”
The court heard that Abednico’s visits are now a nightmare, filled with punches, insults and death threats, all while his new flame is enjoying herself in Cowdray Park.
But when Abednico took the stand, he played the innocent card.
“I don’t know what she’s talking about. I don’t stay with that woman. I live in Cement Siding,” he insisted. He accused Betty of hiding his kraal head licence to “fix” him.
“I can’t perform my kraal duties because she won’t give me my papers,” he said, leaving the gallery chuckling. In the end, justice swung Betty’s way.
Magistrate Mahembe granted her a five-year protection order, warning Abednico not to lay a hand, word or threat on his wife again.
