MP Earning $15,000 Monthly’s Not Paid A Penny Of Child Maintenance – Case – Eduzim News

By Paul Nyathi | Masvingo, Zimbabwe – December 6, 2024
Zanu PF Bikita West legislator, Energy Mutodi, who reportedly earns an impressive US$15,000 per month from his businesses, legal practice, and parliamentary duties, is now under fire for failing to contribute to the maintenance of his six-month-old child. His ex-wife, Polite Dhiyo, has filed a lawsuit demanding US$1,500 monthly child support, alleging that Mutodi has not paid a single cent towards the child’s upkeep.

The application, filed at the Masvingo Magistrates Court this morning, paints a grim picture of neglect despite Mutodi’s substantial earnings. Dhiyo alleges that the MP, who holds a high-profile position in government and enjoys significant financial benefits, has shirked his responsibilities as a parent.

“I was married in 2023 to the respondent under customary law. The respondent paid part of the lobola to my parents. However, we later separated. During the customary law union, we had one minor child, who is now six months old,” Dhiyo stated in her court filing. She emphasized that Mutodi had committed to supporting the child post-separation but has failed to honor that promise.

According to Dhiyo, she has been left to shoulder the full financial burden of raising the child, providing shelter, food, clothing, and medical care, while Mutodi continues to enjoy his considerable monthly income.

Lavish Income vs. Child Neglect

What is particularly striking about this case is the glaring disparity between Mutodi’s earnings and his alleged neglect of parental duties. As a sitting Member of Parliament, Mutodi is said to rake in US$15,000 monthly—a salary and income level that far exceeds the average Zimbabwean household’s income. Despite this, Dhiyo claims that Mutodi has chosen to avoid even the basic responsibility of supporting his child.

The US$1,500 Dhiyo is requesting represents just 10% of Mutodi’s reported monthly income, yet the court application suggests he has provided absolutely no financial assistance, leaving the child entirely dependent on Dhiyo’s efforts.

Public Outcry Likely

This revelation is likely to spark outrage among Zimbabweans, who are already grappling with economic hardships and rising inequality. Many may find it difficult to reconcile Mutodi’s privileged income with his alleged neglect of parental responsibilities.

Dhiyo’s case also highlights the broader issue of accountability among public officials who are expected to set an example in society. Critics argue that if an individual earning US$15,000 per month cannot meet basic obligations to their own child, it raises questions about their commitment to serving the public and upholding moral and ethical standards.

Court to Hear Case

The Masvingo Magistrates Court is expected to set a hearing date soon, where Mutodi will be required to respond to the allegations. Meanwhile, Dhiyo’s case continues to shed light on the struggles faced by women and children when fathers with substantial means refuse to fulfill their responsibilities.

This developing story has gripped the nation, with many awaiting the court’s decision and its potential implications for accountability among Zimbabwe’s wealthy and politically connected elite.

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