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Thubelihle Mabhena Court Reporter
A NURSE who allegedly beat up her pastor husband until he obtained a protection order against her has hauled him to court demanding $1,100 for spousal and child maintenance.

The court heard that Everswick Mutsapata, 41, moved out of the matrimonial home when he was granted the protection on January 16 this year.

Sandra Mutsapata, 32, who is employed at Mpilo Central Hospital, told Bulawayo magistrate Sheunesu Matova that she is failing to make ends meet after her husband deserted her and their two-year-old child.

“Your worship, my husband left the house on January 16 and it has been a tough time for me and my daughter because the money I earn cannot sustain us. I’m applying for $1,100 as spousal and child maintenance,” said Sandra.

“He is a part-time pastor and a claims officer at Engineer Medical Fund so he is earning enough to meet our demands,” she said.

Sandra produced a marriage certificate to prove they are legally married under the Marriage Act Chapter 5.11.

Mutsapata shot back saying that his wife was lying that he was a pastor.

He told the court he was studying theology.

“Your worship, I can’t afford to pay $1,100, I have two other children I’m taking care of. I vacated our matrimonial home after I was granted a protection order against her for beating me up,” said Mutsapata.

“I’ve been giving her $100 each month since I left home and that’s the only amount I can offer her as maintenance.”

Magistrate Matova ordered Mutsapata to pay $300 as spousal and child maintenance until the child is 18 years old or his wife remarries, dies or divorces.