Online Reporter
Danisa Masuku
A BULAWAYO cross-border bus driver left a court dumbfounded after offering just US$20 a month for the upkeep of his child — despite earning over ten times that amount!
James Zakhe Ncube, a married man from Morningside, was dragged to the maintenance court by his ex-girlfriend Gugulethu Moyo, who was demanding US$100 for their minor child’s upkeep.
But when James coolly offered a measly US$20, murmurs of disbelief rippled through the gallery.
“How do you support a child on US$20?” someone whispered as the courtroom shook its collective head.
The presiding magistrate Sharon Gava pressed Ncube to explain.
“I earn US$250. I have a wife and four children to look after already. I’m the only one working,” he said, trying to justify his low-ball offer.
Gugu came out guns blazing, narrating a tale of broken promises and heartbreak.
“When I got pregnant, he promised to be there. But now he’s ghosting his responsibilities. I end up borrowing money to feed and clothe the child,” she fumed.
She argued that child-related expenses had skyrocketed and she could no longer shoulder the burden alone.
Cornered, Ncube finally offered to pay half the child’s school fees.
In the end, the magistrate ordered Ncube to pay US$60 a month and cover 50% of the school fees every term until the child turns 18.
No more dodging daddy duties!
