Domboshava Man Fined US$200 for Insulting Father-in-Law via Text Messages
Harare, Zimbabwe – In a recent court hearing before Harare Magistrate Ms Evelyn Mashavakure, Christopher Nowa (47) pleaded guilty to contravening the Postal Telecommunications Act after sending grossly offensive text messages to his father-in-law, Wonder Chenjerai.
Nowa, a resident of Munemo Village in Chief Chinamhora’s area, Domboshava, was ordered to pay a fine of US$200 as a result of his actions.
The court heard that on October 29, Nowa intentionally sent a highly offensive text message to his father-in-law. The message, written out of anger during a disagreement with his wife, contained derogatory remarks aimed at Chenjerai. Nowa expressed remorse in court, admitting that his choice of words was driven by anger and sought forgiveness for his actions.
The text message read as follows: “Huyai mutore mwana wenyu kana muchida achiri mupenyu hindava machine hunhu hwakaora so?”
Following the offensive text, Nowa proceeded to further insult his father-in-law during a phone call, using derogatory language and stating, “imbwa dzevanhu, go and report where you want. I am prepared to die.”
The State successfully proved Nowa’s intentional wrongdoing, leading to his guilty plea. The court emphasized the need for responsible communication and respect within family relationships, highlighting that such offensive behaviour is not acceptable under the Postal Telecommunications Act.
While Nowa expressed remorse and sought forgiveness, the court found it necessary to impose a fine of US$200 as a penalty for his actions. The judgment serves as a reminder that individuals must exercise restraint and choose their words carefully, even during moments of anger or disagreement.
