Melody Baya Court Reporter
A POLICE officer in Bulawayo yesterday dragged her army officer husband to the maintenance court for the upkeep of their child. Lerato Svosve, who is stationed at Bulawayo Central police station, was claiming $141 as maintenance before magistrate Adelaide Mbeure, for her child with George Svosve who is a soldier based at Induna barracks in Llewellyn.
Lerato, who has since moved out of her matrimonial home, said Svosve had failed to maintain their child. “He hasn’t been taking care of his child’s needs and he is only offering $70 which isn’t enough,” said Lerato.
Svosve, however, said that he loved his wife and was willing to make things work between them.
He also added that he could only pay $70 for the child.
“She just moved out without a reason and took the child with her. I love her and I’m willing to make things work and put this behind me,” said Svosve.
“I’ve responsibilities which include taking care of my other child who is always under the care of a maid when I’m at work and I’ve to pay that maid”.
Mbeure granted Lerato $85 as maintenance for her child.
“Considering that both parties are of means, they’re both responsible for the upkeep of the minor child. Accordingly maintenance is granted in the sum of $85 a month,” said Mbeure.