Umalayitsha blasts magistrate

A malayitsha was detained for two hours for shouting at a magistrate after he was dragged to court by his ex-wife for the upkeep of their two minor children.

Patricia Jele was demanding $218 from Thabani Mangena last week on Thursday.

Mangena told the court that he could afford only $50 as he had lost his job.

Bulawayo magistrate Sharon Rosemani told Mangena to include the money for school and increase the amount he was offering.

"Fifty dollars is not enough for school fees and all the other expenses. Add the money for school fees to the money you are offering," said Miss Rosemani.

Mangena told the court that he did not have to pay the money for the upkeep of his children since he was already taking care of them.

"I don't see the reason to come to court because I take care of my children. $50 is enough for two children, you cannot tell me how much I should give to my children. I can take care of my children without the court intervening," he said.

There was commotion in court as Mangena continued shouting at the magistrate.

Rosemani ordered Mangena to be detained in the holding cells for two hours so that he could cool down.

"Officers, take him to the cells for two hours so that he knows the court is not his house. You may explain to him that he should speak with respect when speaking to me," she said.

After detention, Mangena apologised and offered $70 for the maintenance of his two children.

Rosemani ordered Mangena to pay $100 for the upkeep of his two children.