Online Reporter
Solomon Bhumu
Weekender Reporter
NOMATTER Dhliwayo (32), of Chishakwe Village, has been granted a one-year valid protection against her 35-year-old stepson, Takunda Marange, following persistent verbal abuse and violent behavior from him.
Dhliwayo approached the Mutare Civil Court, and appeared before Ms Thandiwe Sibanda, seeking relief from the escalating hostility at the hands of Marange.
The woman claimed that Marange frequently insulted her whenever he returned home intoxicated. She recounted a recent incident in which Marange allegedly brokeher bedroom door in a drunken rage.
“Your worship, I have no peace at home with my stepson. Each time he comes home drunk, I know I will not rest because of his endless insult,” said Dhliwayo, further alleging that Marange often accused her of having a hand in his mother’s death, suggesting she had orchestrated it to marry his father.
“I do not know where he got all those stories that he tells me. He chases me from the house, accusing me of killing his mother,” she added.
In his defence, Marange admitted to the court that alcohol was the root of his ill behaviour, expressing regret and pledging to change.
“Your worship, I do not know what comes into me whenever I get drunk. I do not intentionally want to insult her or cause any harm, but when I get drunk, I cannot control myself,” said Marange.
However, he also voiced discomfort with the age dynamic in the household, arguing that he found it inappropriate for his stepmother to be younger than him. He expressed lasting suspicions about the circumstances surrounding his mother’s death, noting that his father had moved in with Dhliwayo less than two months after his late mom’s funeral.
“Deep in my heart, it is very hard to accept someone even younger than me as my stepmother. Right now, I am left with many questions about my mother’s death,” said Marange.
Dhliwayo revealed that she and Marange had attended the same high school, and alleged that his resentment stemmed from a romantic rejection during their school days.
“There is something you must know. We went to the same high school with Marange. I still remember when I rejected his love proposal. I think that must be the root of his hatred,” she said.
Marange did not deny the claim, but stood by his grievances.
The court ruled in favour of Dhliwayo, granting her a protection order valid for one year.
Marange was sternly warned against repeating his aggressive behaviour and instructed not to interfere with his father’s relationship.
