Mother-in-law refuses to surrender grandchildren

AN adamant Mutare woman refused to surrender her four grandchildren to their biological father, saying he had not paid her anything as bride price.

Having been fad up by her mother-in-law's demands, Godfrey Mabutshwa approached Mutare Civil Court praying for the custody of his children.

The two appeared before senior Mutare magistrate, Mrs Sharon Chipanga last week and she granted Mabutshwa's application.

"I am praying for the custody of my four children who are staying in the rural areas with my former mother-in law.

"We separated with my ex-wife and she has since married another man, leaving my children in the custody of her mother. I am reliable informed that the other two children are not going to school.

"I have since re-married another wife and I want to take care of my children. My new wife is also willing to take care of them. I have a five-roomed house in Chikanga, so I wish to stay with my children in the city," said Mabutshwa.

In opposing the affidavit, Nancy Chitsigo, Mabutshwa's mother-in-law, accused him of being irresponsible. She claimed that she had the right to take care of the children.

"My son-in-law did not pay lobola, so why should I give him the custody of the children.

"If he wants his children, he should pay lobola first. No lobola, no children.

"I suffered with his children for seven years and he did not contribute even a single cent for their upkeep.

"I would till other people's land in order to raise money for their fees. They are now grown up and he now wants his children. What guarantee do I have that the new wife will take good care of them?" she said.

In her ruling, Mrs Chipanga said since Mabutswa had accommodation for the children and was gainfully employed, he should have custody of his children.