Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Weekender Reporter
AN elderly man, Sekuru Choto, has hauled his son, Munorweyi, before Chief Mutasa’s community court, accusing him of selling off his property — from livestock to household goods — without consent.
Choto claims his son has been disposing of his belongings at will, leaving him distressed and unable to maintain his homestead.
“He even sold my dogs without telling me. Each time I get a new dog, he takes and sells it. He sells everything and has no respect,” lamented Choto.
The court heard that Munorweyi allegedly sold building materials sent by another son, Percy, including bags of cement.
Choto further accused him of stealing ducks, fencing wire, asbestos sheets, roofing materials, a wardrobe, and tools.
“Nothing is safe anymore. I am suffering because of my own child. I no longer have peace at my home,” Choto told the court.
He also alleged that Munorweyi discourages grandchildren from helping with chores, telling them cattle herding should be paid work.
Munorweyi, however, denied the allegations.
“I did not steal anything from my father. I have been staying at that home for 26 years and I have never misplaced anything,” he said.
He admitted taking some fencing wire but insisted it remained at the homestead.
“I only took small fencing wires, but I did not sell them. They are still there at home,” Munorweyi told the court.
Munorweyi claimed his father had left him in charge of maintaining the property.
“My father stays elsewhere and left me there. I work for myself and I have never stolen anything from him,” he said.
Chief Mutasa expressed concern over the allegations and breakdown of respect within the family.
He stressed the importance of upholding cultural values, particularly respect for elders and protection of family property.
“You are ordered to buy a wardrobe and give it to your father as a replacement,” said Chief Mutasa, further instructing Munorweyi to replace all the missing property by March 26.
“You must replace everything that you took from your father. You should respect your parent and take responsibility,” he said.
Chief Mutasa urged the family to resolve their differences amicably and restore harmony.
