Harare Woman Seeks Protection from Abusive, Addict...

Harare Woman Seeks Protection from Abusive, Addicted Husband

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

A 32-year marriage has broken down due to alcohol addiction, with a Harare woman seeking legal protection from her abusive husband.

Getrude Murenje appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, accusing her husband, Petros Murenje, of subjecting her to decades of emotional and physical abuse, worsened by his alcohol and marijuana addiction.

Getrude told the court that Petros' behavior shifted soon after he paid lobola, developing daily drinking and smoking habits that spiraled into regular assaults and verbal attacks.

"My husband started drinking and smoking weed daily after we got married. When he comes home, he insults and assaults me, calling me a witch and using vulgar language. I have endured this marriage for 32 years because I was raised to fight for my home. I still love him, but he refuses to change—even now, when we have grandchildren," she testified.

In his defense, Petros admitted to his drinking problem, stating he often had no recollection of his violent actions when intoxicated.

"I don’t recall anything I do when I am drunk. I always wake up surprised when my wife tells me that I assaulted her the previous night. I feel ashamed when I hear about it, and I have tried several times to quit alcohol, but I always fail," he said.

Presiding Magistrate Naratam granted Getrude a protection order and advised her to report any future assaults to the police immediately.