Wife number 4 stabs hubby over affairs with sister and friend

A 33-year-old businesswoman from Domboshava has walked out of her polygamous marriage, accusing her husband of multiple adulterous affairs - including relationships with her own sister and a close friend.

Judith Maruta, who was the fourth wife of Kefas Mushore (50), said her marriage crumbled after she discovered that her husband was involved with her cousin sister, Tabeth Banda, and her married friend, Primrose Mutare.

According to Judith, the situation became unbearable when she realised that, despite already having four wives, Mushore had allegedly taken Primrose in as a fifth partner.

"She was not just my friend, but a married woman. And Tabeth is my own sister. I could not accept that," Judith said.

The dispute escalated into violence, culminating in Judith stabbing her husband during a domestic altercation. She later told the court that the incident followed years of emotional strain and conflict within the marriage.

"I failed to stomach a situation where my husband was bedding my married friend and sister," she said.

Judith was arrested following the incident and spent about two weeks in remand prison - alongside her young children - before being fined US$500. She was also ordered to pay US$563 in restitution for damage to Mushore's vehicle.

After her release, tensions between the two continued, with Mushore reportedly obtaining a protection order against her and demanding US$50,000 in compensation for injuries he claims left him unable to walk.

The couple, who have two young children together, are now due to appear before Alfred Chinembiri at the local magistrates' court in Domboshava for a hearing on maintenance. Judith is seeking an upward variation to US$35 per child.

Judith says she now regrets entering the polygamous marriage, claiming it has cost her dearly.

"I regret the polygamous marriage. It has left me without some of my properties, including two houses and a car. My life is now miserable," she said.

Meanwhile, Tabeth Banda admitted to the relationship, alleging that Mushore had been financially supporting her while her husband works in South Africa.

"He was assisting me with money behind my sister's back, and I could not reject everything he offered," Tabeth said. "After she found out, I confirmed that I was dating him."

Efforts to obtain a comment from Mushore were unsuccessful.

The case has once again highlighted the complex and often volatile dynamics of polygamous relationships, particularly when financial dependency and family ties intersect.