Man offers US$10

Kundainashe Chimbi

MAGISTRATE Ayanda Dhlamini yesterday told a Harare man to take court business seriously after he offered US$10 for the welfare of his 10-year-old child.

Sebastien Gwese made the paltry offer after being dragged to the Maintenance Court by his former wife, Talent Chiwota.

“My offer is US$10, that is what I can afford. I do part time jobs and I earn US$50 per month,” said Gwese.

In shock, the presiding magistrate again asked Gwese to make a meaningful offer.

“I cannot accept US$10 for a 10-year-old, that is a ridiculous amount,” said the magistrate.

Gwese then told the court that he was prepared to add more.

“I will add up to US$35 or US$40 and pay fees if the child is enrolled at a Government school,” he said.

Chiwota disputed that Gwese is a part time worker, saying he was a permanent employee.

“He is lying; I was advised by his manager that he is a permanent worker.

“The child was enrolled at a Government school, but he never paid anything,” she said.

Magistrate Dhlamini ordered Gwese to pay US$40 plus school fees and uniform for the child.