Elita Mpofu, the victim, recounted the harrowing incident that unfolded on Valentine’s Day. Her son-in-law, Tinashe Chiyangwa, allegedly stormed into her home in a fit of rage, accusing his wife of being unfaithful after she received a gift from a male friend. Elita attempted to mediate the situation, but her efforts only fueled Tinashe’s anger.
“He pushed me to the ground and started hitting me,” Elita said. “He accused me of encouraging my daughter to be promiscuous. Even though my daughter tried to explain that the gift was just a friendly gesture, he wouldn’t listen.”
The assault left Elita with a leg injury and emotional trauma, prompting her to seek legal action against her son-in-law.
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Tinashe’s Defense: Anger Over Betrayal
When allowed to explain his actions, Tinashe admitted to losing his temper but justified his behaviour by citing feelings of betrayal and disrespect.
“I was furious because my mother-in-law allowed another man to give my wife a romantic gift on Valentine’s Day,” Tinashe stated. “She knows I paid lobola (bride price) for her daughter, yet she lets other men approach her.”
While Tinashe acknowledged that his actions were wrong, he emphasized that his anger stemmed from a sense of being disrespected and betrayed by his mother-in-law’s perceived complicity.
“I know I shouldn’t have acted that way. I lost control of my emotions,” he added.
Court’s Decision: Condemnation of Violence
The case was brought before the Harare Civil Court, where Magistrate Meenal Naratom presided. The magistrate strongly condemned Tinashe’s violent behaviour and stressed the importance of maintaining family harmony.
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“Violence is never justified, no matter the circumstances,” Magistrate Naratom stated. “Your actions were unacceptable and have caused significant harm to your mother-in-law.”
The court granted Elita a peace order, legally barring Tinashe from harassing or approaching her in the future. This ruling aims to ensure Elita’s safety and prevent further incidents of violence.
