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Lethokuhle Moyo Court Reporter
A BULAWAYO magistrate yesterday gave an unemployed polygamous man a tongue lashing for “irresponsible sexual behaviour” after he offered $35 for the upkeep of his two wives and children. McDonald Mpofu, 24, of Mberengwa new stands, who claimed that he does odd jobs and gold panning in Mberengwa to eke out a living, was dragged to court by one of his wives Sibusisiwe Ncube, demanding $50.

Mpofu said he could not afford the amount that was being claimed because he is married to another woman who is pregnant and stays with his family.
The two appeared before magistrate Vivian Ndlovu.

“Why are you going around impregnating other people’s children when you know you are unemployed? You should work hard to support your children,” said Ndlovu.
In response, Mpofu said, “Your Worship, I request that she comes back to stay with me and the other wife and use this $50 that she wants to sustain us all. I am unemployed. I can only afford to give her $35 per month”.

He said he earns about $20 per month and sometimes does not get anything as he would have not done any piece jobs.
“My stepfather sometimes gives me money to support the children. I have been giving her $5, $2 or anything, depending on the money that I get. My parents are taking care of me and my wife at home,” Mpofu said.

Ncube told the court she recently approached Mpofu’s mother who told her that Mpofu can make $800 a week and could afford the $50 that she was demanding.
“Your Worship, this man here is not telling the truth. He has not been giving me money from the time the child was born up until today.

“I once asked him what his pregnant wife eats if he is saying that he has no money. He has not done anything for the child; my mother has been taking care of me and the child.”
Magistrate Ndlovu ordered Mpofu to pay $35 a month for the upkeep of his child.