The ManicaPost
Blessing Rwizi:Weekender Correspondent
A FARMER believed to be in his early 40s on Tuesday stunned the court after he offered to pay $5 as monthly maintenance for his one-year-six- months-old child. Tendai Muranda was dragged to court by his estranged wife, Maria Marijeni who was claiming $90 for their child’s upkeep.Mrs Anniah Ndiraya presided over the matter. Marijeni told the court that she was realising $10 per month from selling vegetables.
“I am getting $10 each month from my vegetables and it is not enough for the child’s needs. He is the father and he should do his part as well because I have been struggling alone for some time now. The child needs food, good clothes and medication among other things. At least $90 is reasonable,” said Marijeni.
In response, Muranda pleaded with the court to bear with him, stating that he is paying $40 for another child. He offered to pay $5 per month.
“I am paying $40 maintenance for another child aged 10 and I am struggling to raise that money. I don’t want to be dragged back to this court after failing to pay whatever amount this woman is claiming.
“I can work extra hard and raise $5 for this child every month. Where on earth do I get the $90 that she is talking about Your Worship?” said Muranda.
Ms Ndiraya ruled that Muranda should pay $20 as monthly maintenance for the minor child with effect from October 30.
