Father in-law seeks maintenance for grandkids

A KOMBI driver in Bulawayo has been dragged to the Maintenance Court by his ex-father-in-law who is demanding $130 for the upkeep of his two grandchildren.

Agrippa Khumalo of Nkulumane suburb told magistrate Batanai Tuwe that Onias Sibanda was not supporting his daughters aged eight and 12-years-old.

Sibanda of Pumula East suburb told the court that he could not afford the amount claimed by Khumalo.

"I'm a kombi driver and I earn about $160 per month. I'm married to another woman and I've three other children that I support. I can only offer $50 for the upkeep of my two daughters. Business is low these days that's why I'm failing to support my children," said Sibanda.

Khumalo told the court that his granddaughters owe about $400 in school fees.

"I tried to negotiate with him to bring whatever he gets for his children, but he has failed. He hasn't supported his children and they are under my custody. My daughter is working in South Africa and she usually sends what she gets. I expect him to do the same for his children. My grandchildren have not paid fees for about four terms and they now owe about $400. I'm struggling to raise money for their fees," said Khumalo.

Magistrate Tuwe ordered Sibanda to pay $80 every month.