Extreme sex demands, woman secures protection order

A Harare woman, Nancy Chihota, has secured a protection order against her husband, Benny Hizaki, whom she accuses of subjecting her to relentless sexual demands and abuse, even during emotionally distressing periods, such as her mother's funeral.

Chihota told the court that her husband insists on having sex every day and disregards her circumstances, including her monthly periods and grieving for her late mother.

"He wants to have sex every day when he returns from work and doesn't care whether I am on my monthly periods or not," Chihota testified.

She further revealed that Hizaki forced himself on her both before and after her mother's funeral.

"When my mother passed away, he refused to accompany me to the rural areas but, before I left, and still with tears on my cheeks, he forced himself on me," Chihota said. "When I returned from the funeral, he did the same, claiming he has conjugal rights."

Despite the alleged abuse, Chihota expressed that she still loves her husband but feels conflicted due to his actions.

In response, Hizaki admitted to the behavior but justified it by accusing his wife of deceiving him about her HIV status.

"She has been taking antiretroviral drugs for the past five years and did not bother to tell me. I feel like I should punish her for five years. I also love her, but she can't be trusted," Hizaki told the court.

Presiding over the case, Magistrate Meenal Narotam ruled in favor of Chihota and granted her a protection order. The court's decision emphasizes the need for respect, communication, and boundaries in marital relationships.

The case has sparked significant discussion about marital consent, gender-based violence, and the importance of trust and transparency in relationships.