Online Reporter
Alicia Kadzviti
Herald Reporter
A Harare Civil Court magistrate has ordered a soldier to pay US$80 monthly maintenance for his one-year-old child after dismissing his US$30 offer as inadequate.
Natasha Kudu took her former partner, Marshie Mukotekwa, to court seeking US$150 plus ZWG2 000 per month for the upkeep of their minor child.
Mukotekwa told the court he could not afford the requested amount, insisting he could only pay US$30.
He explained that he earns US$280 plus ZWG3 244, but takes home US$130 after loan deductions.
He added that he also supports another child in Grade Four and sends US$50 monthly to his 62-year-old mother in the rural areas, noting that he has five siblings.
“I take care of my mother and I have a child in Grade Four looking up to me,” he said.
However, presiding Magistrate Hannah Fazilahmed questioned why Mukotekwa was able to give his mother US$50 monthly, yet offered significantly less for a growing child who requires basic necessities.
“The child is still young and needs basic care. Your siblings can assist your mother,” the magistrate said.
Mukotekwa further claimed that Kudu left the matrimonial home following a dispute, allegedly taking all household furniture bought through loans. He also alleged that he was assaulted during the incident.
He denied neglecting the child, saying he came to court to clear his name as a responsible father.
Mukotekwa also argued that Kudu works at an upmarket hotel and was demanding excessive maintenance.
He said his attempts to inquire about her earnings were blocked by relatives who insisted that a woman’s salary should not be questioned.
“Why does she want a lot of money when she is working and earning a lot?” he asked.
In response, Kudu dismissed the allegations, saying Mukotekwa was not supporting the child and that she had been solely responsible for the minor’s upkeep.
She revealed that she left the matrimonial home due to violence and has scars to prove it.
Kudu also disputed claims that Mukotekwa’s mother depended on him, saying the elderly woman keeps chickens and receives a pension.
“He is lying. His mother is well off and takes care of herself. Besides, two of his siblings are rich and they do not need his input,” she said.
In her ruling, Magistrate Fazilahmed emphasised that while Mukotekwa may have other responsibilities, the maintenance of a minor child remains a legal obligation.
She ordered him to pay US$80 per month, effective January 31 2026.
