Tinashe Mlambo
Weekender Reporter
A SAKUBVA woman did the unthinkable when she chased away her wedded husband and musician, John Marisa, out of their matrimonial bedroom, accusing him of failing to gratify her in bed.
This came up during a maintenance hearing where Melody Marisa had dragged her hubby, John Marisa to Mutare Civil Court, demanding US$100 for the upkeep of their two children.
Mutare magistrate, Mr Xavier Chipato, presided over the matter, and ordered the musician to pay US$70 towards upkeep of their two children.
Melody accused her husband of consistently demonstrating a lack of interest in contributing towards the upkeep and well-being of the family despite having the means to do so.
“Your worship, I am at a point of giving up and exhausted from carrying the entire burden of our household responsibilities alone.
“The defendant, despite being the father of our two children, has consistently demonstrated lack of interest in contributing towards our domestic well-being. His occasional musical performances generate some income, but he flatly refuses to share it or assist with even the most basic household needs.
“I previously attempted to address this issue by asking his sister to talk to him, but she declined to intervene. As a result, I was forced to assume the role of both parents, managing the household and caring for our children single-handedly.
“The defendant’s lack of involvement has left me shouldering the entire responsibilities. In light of this, I am seeking maintenance in the amount of US$100 for our two children (to) help me cover essential expenses such as school fees, food, and other necessities,” she said.
Melody said although she is employed as a nurse, her income is stretched to the limit, and unable to provide for herself and the two children.
“It is deeply troubling that a grown up man would show such disregard for his children’s well-being and neglect his responsibilities as a parent. I implore the court to consider the defendant’s lack of involvement and grant me the maintenance I am applying for to ensure the well-being of our children,” she said.
In response, John admitted his financial shortcomings, adding that his wife chased him out of their matrimonial bedroom, and resultantly relinquished him of any responsibility towards the family.
“I am utterly astonished and disappointed that she has presented herself in court today with no apparent remorse or shame. “While I acknowledge that I am facing financial difficulties, it is essential to note that she ejected me from our matrimonial bed, thereby relinquishing my role as the primary provider, and forcing me to re-evaluate my responsibilities.
“When I inquired about her decision, she bluntly stated that I was no longer useful to her due to my inability to satisfy her in bed.
“This hurtful and demeaning comment was followed by her assumption of the role of the primary breadwinner, leaving me feeling emasculated and disregarded. As a man, I deserve respect and dignity, but I have chosen to respect her decision and adapt to our new dynamics.
“As a musician, my monthly earnings amount to US$95, which barely covers my own living expenses.
“If she is demanding the entirety of my income, plus additional funds, I will be left destitute and unable to support myself, let alone our children.
“This is particularly concerning, as I have a mother who depends on me for support. She has refused to assist with her medical care, leaving me with the sole responsibility.
“I request that the court considers the circumstances leading to my financial situation, her role in our changed dynamics, and the impact of her actions on our family. I hope the court will take into account my efforts to adapt and provide for our children despite the challenges I face,” he said.
