Zimbabwe man threatens to kill child, himself over ex-wife's new marriage

A Harare man has sparked outrage and concern after reportedly threatening to kill his child and take his own life in response to his ex-wife's plans to remarry just weeks after their divorce.

The disturbing revelations were made by Kelly Mupani during a hearing at the Harare Civil Court, where she sought a protection order against her ex-husband, Steven Kambeva. The couple recently ended their marriage after what was described as an undisclosed misunderstanding.

Mupani told Magistrate Meenal Narotam that since their separation nearly a month ago, Kambeva has made repeated threats and uninvited visits to her new residence. She claimed that the threats escalated after he discovered she was planning to remarry.

"He is failing to accept that things ended between us and he is disturbing me by coming to my new place of residence threatening to kill our child because he found out that I am planning on getting married again," Mupani told the court.

She added that Kambeva's threats were deeply traumatic and had left her in a state of constant fear.

"He says he will stab our child with a knife and commit suicide afterwards. I am living in fear as each day passes because I do not know what he might do to our child. I want the court's protection so that he does not come near me, contact me or make threats in my face."

In response, Kambeva denied all accusations, stating that he had never made threats against his ex-wife or their child.

"She is lying before the court. I have never threatened her in any way or threatened to kill our child. I have no issues with the court granting her the protection order," he said.

Magistrate Narotam ruled in favour of Mupani, granting a protection order that bars Kambeva from visiting her residence, insulting her, or making any threats. The court emphasized the need to ensure the safety and emotional well-being of both Mupani and the child involved.

The case has drawn attention to the growing concern over post-divorce violence and emotional abuse in domestic disputes, with calls for authorities to strengthen support systems for victims.