A Valentine’s Day gift sparked a violent dispute in Harare after a man, Tinashe Chiyangwa, assaulted his mother-in-law, Elita Mpofu, accusing her of encouraging his wife’s infidelity.
The incident, which occurred on February 14, has now led to a legal case, with Elita seeking justice at the Harare Civil Court.
According to Elita, Tinashe arrived at her home in a rage, accusing his wife of being unfaithful after she received a Valentine’s gift from another man. When Elita attempted to intervene, he became more aggressive.
“He pushed me to the ground and started attacking me, claiming I was promoting my daughter’s promiscuous behavior. Despite my daughter’s insistence that the gift was a friendly gesture, he refused to listen,” she stated.
Elita suffered a leg injury from the assault and, feeling deeply shaken, decided to take legal action.
In his defense, Tinashe admitted to acting out of anger but justified his reaction, claiming he felt disrespected.
“I was upset because my mother-in-law allowed another man to give my wife a romantic gift. I paid lobola (bride price) for her daughter, yet she lets other men approach her,” he argued.
While acknowledging his wrongdoing, he insisted his actions were driven by frustration and betrayal.
“I know I was wrong, but I lost control of my emotions.”
Presiding over the case, Magistrate Meenal Naratom condemned Tinashe’s behavior, emphasizing the need for peaceful conflict resolution.
“Violence is never justified, regardless of the circumstances. Your actions have caused harm to your mother-in-law,” the magistrate stated.
As a result, the court granted Elita a peace order, legally preventing Tinashe from harassing or approaching her.
