Online Reporter
Online Reporter
A widow from Nkosikazi village in Bubi District, Matabeleland North Province, has voiced deep concern over the safety of her son following an inheritance dispute with his two half-brothers.
The widow, Orttilia Sibanda, has revealed that her son, Peace Mkandla, has been subjected to repeated physical attacks by his half-brothers, Desire and Daniel Mkandla, in the inheritance dispute.
The conflict stems from their late father, Siboniso Mkandla’s decision to leave his entire estate to Peace, including two houses in Bulawayo, rural property in Nkosikazi, and all livestock.
In an interview, Orttilia revealed, “Peace has been the subject of unwarranted physical attacks from his half-brothers Desire and Daniel after my late husband left everything to him.”
Tensions reportedly escalated when Desire and Daniel discovered Peace renovating one of the properties in Nkulumane 5. The two brothers violently confronted Peace and subsequently set the property on fire, threatening that they would not allow him to claim what they insist is their rightful inheritance.
“Peace had returned from South Africa and he found the Nkulumane property with broken window panes. He went to purchase these panes and on the day in question, he two half-brothers found him installing them.
“They then started shouting at him, questioning why he had not informed them that he intended to renovate the house. This was when they were made aware of the contents of their father’s will. They then became violent, attacking Peace, accusing him of stealing their inheritance. They went on to burn down the house, vowing that he would not leave there as long as they were alive,” said Orttilia.
Following the arson attack, Desire and Daniel continued to threaten both Peace and Orttilia, even issuing death threats.
Fearful for his life, Peace, according to his mother, has since gone into hiding.
Orttilia expressed her distress, stating, “I am worried about my son’s safety and well-being. The threats and attacks have made it impossible for him to live peacefully. This is why I am reaching out to the media for help and protection.”
The family feud highlights the challenges faced in inheritance disputes, with Orttilia calling for urgent intervention to ensure the safety of her son and to resolve the matter peacefully.
These inheritance issues have, over the years, been prevalent in the country as families fight among each other for property left by deceased members.
Bongani Ndlovu