‘Pay up or else’

risk going to prison for six months.

Makunde (47) was being charged with contempt of court after he allegedly defied a court order.
He was convicted after a trial and was ordered to pay US$900 forthwith and the balance to be paid on or before June 30.

Harare magistrate Mr Donald Ndirowei said Makunde’s moral blameworthiness was very high.
Prosecutor Mr Tungamirai Chakurira said on March 8 2011, Makunde was ordered by the civil court to pay US$450 maintenance per month for his wife and three children plus school fees.

His wife Rachael told the court that Makunde only paid the maintenance for four months.
In his defence, Makunde argued that his actions were not deliberate.

He said he was out of employment hence could not pay the maintenance and school fees.
Makunde defaulted paying US$12 510 for maintenance and school fees.

According to the State papers, maintenance and pocket money amounted to US$9 900, while school fees amounted to US$2 610.
Makunde failed to pay the money from July 31 2011 to March this year.