The ManicaPost
Post Reporter
VETERAN solo musician Stephen ‘Steve’ Makoni has been dragged to court by his landlord over non-payment of rentals for a house he stays in Rusape’s Vengere high density suburb.
‘Dhongi’ as Makoni is affectionately known in the music circles allegedly owes Rusape businessman Mr Richard Zinenda about $715 in unpaid rentals and rates.
Mr Zinenda also wants Makoni evicted from his property.
Mr Zinenda, who is represented by Mr Leonard Chigadza of Chigadza and Associates, also wants the dreadlocked musician to pay costs of the suit which will result in the amount rising to $1 222, 75. Makoni did not respond to the initial summons issued by Mr Zinenda on February 26, 2018, prompting Mr Chigadza to apply for a default judgement against him on May 4, 2018.
“Plaintiff (Zinenda) is claiming $715 from the defendant being monies arising from rental, rates and services arrears and eviction of defendant, holding over damages of $100 per month has failed or neglected to pay which amount is overdue. Despite repeated demands defendant has neglected and or refuse to pay the money due plus interest plus cost of suit at an attorney client scale.
“Wherefore plaintiff claims payment of the sum of $715, eviction of defendant and interests together with costs of suit,” reads Mr Zinenda’s summon.
“The Plaintiff hereby applies that the defendant has been duly served with summons, the time for entering an appearance to defend having expired and having not entered an appearance to defend timeously. Default judgement may be granted against the defendant as claimed in the summons together with costs adding up to $ 1 272,75.
In a handwritten response to Mr Chigadza, Makoni disputed refusing to pay the rentals and pleaded for a payment plan to clear the arrears.
