Council Worker Disputes Paternity in Court

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

A Harare woman has taken her partner to the Civil Court, demanding US$300 per month for the upkeep of their three children. However, the man insists that two of the children may not be his.

Shuvai Ndemo told the court that Bingamin Magobera, who works for the local council, has failed to support their children, leaving her to cover most of their expenses. She argued that despite her contributing US$200 towards their needs, Magobera refuses to assist financially.

"He is neglecting his responsibilities. I provide US$200 for the children, yet he refuses to assist," she said.

Magobera, however, disputed the claim, stating that he cannot afford the amount demanded, especially since he has doubts about the paternity of two of the children.

"I can’t pay that money because I think David and Joseph are not my children," he told the court. He also explained that he earns only US$100, supplemented by earnings in ZiG, which he uses to support his mother and a worker in the village.

As a compromise, he offered to pay US$20 per child until a DNA test confirms the children's paternity.

Ndemo rejected the offer, arguing that they live together and that she also takes care of him.

"I cook for him and take care of him, so US$20 per child is not enough," she said.

After hearing both sides, the magistrate ruled that Magobera must pay US$150 per month until DNA tests are conducted to establish the children's paternity.