Crimes and Court Correspondent
The practice of UMlamu/Chiramu has been part of some Zimbabwean traditions for some past decades.
In this practice, a husband is ‘permitted’ to play with his wife’s younger sister in a manner that makes the same his wife.
More often such ‘playing’ has led to sexual relationships of the two or impregnation of the younger sibling.
A Harare woman has sought a peace and restraining order from the Courts after his sister’s ex-husband wants to continue to reap were he did not sow.
Abigail Kafa sought a peace order against her sister’s ex-husband, Shepherd Hide, in the Harare Civil Court, alleging he demands sex from her at her home and assaults her when she refuses.
“He comes over to my house when he wants sex. When I refuse, he insults and assaults me,” Abigail said.
“He threatens to break me into pieces so that the police will not be able to find my body.”
Shepherd responded, questioning the court’s authority to restrict his actions.
“I want the court to make me understand if a married woman is allowed to do whatever she pleases. I have no issues with the court granting her a peace order, but it’s my right to do whatever I please on her.”
Magistrate Meenal Naratom granted the peace order, ordering Shepherd to stop abusing Abigail.
“It’s not your right to demand sex from someone who doesn’t want to give it to you,” the magistrate said. “You must respect people’s boundaries and decisions.”
Zim GBC News©2024