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Noleen Makhurane Court Reporter
A BULAWAYO woman burst into tears as she told a court how her promiscuous husband infected her with HIV and left her and their daughter for a girlfriend. Abigail Ndebele dragged her estranged husband George Chitapure to the maintenance court demanding $140 child support. Ndebele pleaded with Magistrate Adelaide Mbeure to grant her a variation from $40 to $140 in maintenance.

She said she could hardly work as her eyesight was deteriorating since she got infected. “I can’t work properly as my eyesight is getting worse. My husband infected me with HIV and left us to live with another woman. I’m not well and struggle to water people’s gardens for a $1,” Ndebele said sobbing.

“My daughter has arrears of $130 and is starting high school next year. They promised me a place at a high school in Pelandaba suburb and the school fees is $288 every term.” Chitapure told the court that he could not afford to pay more as he earns $80 working at a car park.

“I’ll look for an affordable school. I’m staying by myself and sell firewood during my free time to make ends meet. I’m not feeling well too but I try to support my daughter,” he said. Magistrate Mbeure ordered Ndebele to take a letter to her husband’s employer so that he could write to the court and clarify Chitapure’s salary.