The quiet streets of Hatfield have become the backdrop for a dramatic family feud, pitting a 71-year-old man, Herbert Mlambo, against his children, all over a 61-year-old woman named Sithembile Chipere. The crux of the matter? A love story that has sparked allegations of abuse, legal battles, and a clash of generations.
Mlambo, a widower, insists that his relationship with Chipere is a genuine love affair, a bond that blossomed after he divorced his wife and Chipere lost her husband. “We are madly in love,” he told H-Metro, dismissing claims of abuse. “We are even planning to tie the knot soon.”
His children, however, paint a very different picture. They allege that Chipere, who was initially hired to care for Mlambo after he contracted COVID-19, is exploiting his vulnerability. “My father’s health condition is not sound,” said Tafadzwa, one of Mlambo’s sons. “Sithembile keeps abusing him to the extent of putting words in his mouth. It’s a form of serious abuse that needs to be looked at.”
The family claims that Mlambo’s separation from his wife five years ago was directly linked to Chipere’s “advances” under the guise of providing medical care.
The tension escalated when Tafadzwa discovered Chipere at Mlambo’s family home, a violation of an agreement made with the family. He reported the incident to the police, leading to Chipere’s arrest.
“We signed an agreement with Herbert’s children about visiting their family house,” Chipere told H-Metro, defending herself. “My name is not there in the will, but their names are there, and I have no intention of taking over Herbert’s house.”
She vehemently denies being a nurse aide, stating that she has been in love with Mlambo for seven years and only provided care during the COVID-19 period out of love. “No one paid me for that,” she said. “We love each other.”
The case has become a local sensation, with neighbours and community members weighing in on the situation. “It’s a sad story,” said one neighbour who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s a clash of generations, with the children feeling that their father is being taken advantage of.”
The legal battle is ongoing, with Chipere currently out on bail. The court will ultimately decide whether the relationship between Mlambo and Chipere is a genuine love story or a case of abuse.
The case highlights the complexities of family dynamics, particularly when age and health are factors. While Mlambo insists on his right to choose his own partner, his children are concerned about his vulnerability and the potential for exploitation.
