Son-in-law in court for child neglect

H-Metro Reporter

A Harare woman took her son-in-law to court for not taking care of his two minor children.

Brian Taruvinga was dragged to court by his mother-in-law, Ruramai Mutengaringa, and he shocked her by offering US$15.

He also expressed ignorance over the children’s ages.

Brian defended his offer saying he was not employed and only realised about US$80 per month as a vendor.

“The mother is not taking care of the children; they are being taken care of by a maid who ill-treats them. 

“I asked them to take the children to my mother in the rural area, but they refused, that’s why they applied for maintenance,” said Brian.

Ruramai said US$15 he offered was a joke.

“The money is not enough to cater for two children. We came to court in 2020 and an order was granted, but he only paid once. I am employed and ever busy, and that’s why l was not able to come back to court earlier.

“His mother is older than me and is staying with male children, so l am afraid they might do something to my grandchildren, that’s why l refused.

“I am the one who has been staying with the children and their father has not been doing anything for them. 

“He claims my maid is ill-treating them yet he never visits unless I call him, so how did he come to that conclusion,” said Ruramai.

Magistrate Ayanda Dhlamini ordered Brian to pay US$40 as well as school fees directly to the school.