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Noleen Makhurane, Court Reporter
A BULAWAYO man yesterday threatened to end his marriage if the magistrate granted his wife’s maintenance claim.
Beverly Sibanda dragged her husband Ian Sibanda to the maintenance court demanding $200 for upkeep of their three children.
Sibanda told magistrate Manasa Masiiwa that he would not pay maintenance because he was still married to his wife.
“If I pay maintenance that would mean we are no longer together.
I pay rent and buy food. I will give her the money she wants at home and not through a court order,” he said.
Beverly told the court that her husband does not bring any money home.
She said Sibanda was abusive and is in the habit of assaulting her if she asks him for money to buy food.
“I beg this court to grant me $200 maintenance and a peace order because my husband hits me when I try to ask for money for food,” she said.
The woman said she needs the money to buy books so that the family learns sign language to enable them to communicate with their son who has a hearing impairment.
Beverly said her husband makes extra cash through fixing radios and sound systems in clubs and churches.
However, Sibanda said his wife was being unreasonable as he only earns $300.
“I pay school fees and DSTV. She is lying that we are starving at home.
I cannot quit my job and stay home so that I can learn sign language.
If she wants money she will have to come get it at my work place,” he said.
Beverly called her husband a liar because the government paid fees for their disabled child.
Musiiwa granted Beverly her claim of $200 in child support.
Online Reporter