Online Reporter
Alicia Kadzviti
Herald Reporter
A Harare woman has successfully applied for a peace order against her former daughter-in-law, whom she accused of harassment, threats, and physical assault.
Esther Jere approached the Harare Civil Court seeking protection from Sibonginkhosi Mbangwa, whom she accused of emotional abuse and intimidation.
Jere told the court that Mbangwa frequently insulted her and accused her of being a witch, blaming her for the breakdown of her marriage to Jere’s son.
“She emotionally abuses me, insults me and calls me a witch,” she said.
Jere alleged that tensions escalated earlier this week when Mbangwa arrived at her residence, accompanied by six bouncers from the club where she works, demanding property she claimed belonged to her.
“She came with bouncers, wanted to force her way into my house, saying she had a warrant, but she failed to produce it,” Jere told the court.
According to Jere, she refused to hand over the property without her son’s consent, prompting Mbangwa and the men to attempt to force their way into the house.
“They tried to push me out of the way, and she even punched me on the breast. Fortunately, my neighbours intervened and chased the group away,” she said
Jere said before leaving, Mbangwa threatened to return and “deal with her”. She said she is now fearing for her safety and that of her 12-year-old daughter.
The court heard that the disputed property had since been returned to Mbangwa by Jere’s son, but she is concerned about continued threats and harassment.
Presiding magistrate Janemary Makonye granted the peace order in default after Mbangwa failed to appear in court despite being properly served by the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
In her ruling, the magistrate ordered Mbangwa to refrain from harassing, threatening, or visiting Jere’s residence.
