Bulawayo – A Bulawayo woman’s audacious bid to secure a hefty US$200 monthly maintenance payment for her two children has backfired spectacularly, leaving her visibly crestfallen after a Western Commonage magistrate delivered a humbling ruling. Busani Khumalo, of New Magwegwe, had dragged Shepard Moyo, the father of her two children, to court, accusing him of neglecting his parental responsibilities by failing to provide adequate school fees, food, and rent.
The two share a 13-year-old daughter and a 9-year-old son, born during their past relationship. The case, presided over by Mr Mehluli Moyo, took a dramatic turn when Khumalo’s demands were met with a firm and decisive response from the magistrate.
The courtroom drama unfolded as Khumalo, seeking a maintenance order, boldly requested US$200 per month from Moyo, effectively demanding US$100 for each child. However, her expectations were quickly dashed when Moyo countered with a more realistic assessment of his financial capabilities and shared custody arrangement.
In response, Sheppard explained to the court that he could not afford that amount since he was staying with one of the children while Khumalo was staying with the other. He offered to pay US$30 per month for the child in Khumalo’s custody, while continuing to care for the one living with him.
The magistrate then asked Khumalo what she thought of the US$30 offer. Her response shocked the court, as she shouted at the top of her voice, while throwing her hands in the air and shaking her head in disagreement, saying the amount was ‘too little’.
Khumalo’s reaction to Moyo’s offer was met with disbelief and disapproval. Witnesses in the courtroom described her as shouting at the top of her voice, throwing her hands in the air, and vehemently shaking her head in disagreement, declaring the offered amount as “too little.” Her outburst was not only disrespectful but also revealed a sense of entitlement that did not sit well with the magistrate.
Adding another layer of complexity to the case, Khumalo demanded that Moyo return the minor child in his custody, insisting she should have both children.
This demand prompted the magistrate to remind Khumalo that Moyo also had rights as a parent, and could, in fact, claim maintenance from her for the child in his care.
“He could also come here and claim you’re not supporting the child he’s staying with, but he didn’t. Instead, he offered US$30, and you said it’s too little,” said Mr Moyo.
Mr. Moyo further addressed Khumalo’s demand regarding the custody of their daughter, stating: “The child you’re referring to is a minor. Has she reported any abuse? If not, respect her choice to stay with her father,” he added.
In his ruling, Mr Moyo said he could have ordered that each parent care for the child they live with, but since the father had offered support, he has been ordered to pay US$30 starting December 31, every month until the child turns 18.
Ultimately, Mr. Moyo ruled that Moyo would be required to pay US$30 per month for the child in Khumalo’s custody, commencing on December 31st and continuing until the child reaches the age of 18. This decision, while providing some financial support for Khumalo, fell far short of her initial demand and served as a clear rebuke of her perceived greed.
Khumalo left the courtroom with a frown on her face, visibly disappointed that the court did not grant her the outcome she had hoped for.
Follow @MyZimbabweNews
