Mutare Woman Seeks to Evict Daughter-in-Law, Citing Laziness and Lack of Motivation
A domestic dispute has reached the Mutare Civil Court, where a local woman, Linda Mutema, sought a peace order to remove her daughter-in-law, Sinikiwe Mashunja, from her home. Mutema claims that Mashunja, whom she describes as a “lazy, good-for-nothing loafer,” has overstayed her welcome and shown no interest in improving her life or contributing to the household.
Mutema explained that she has been financially and emotionally supporting Mashunja for the past two years since the death of her son. “I don’t hate my son’s wife, but I can’t stay with her anymore,” she told the court. “I have tried to encourage her to go to school or find employment, even offering to help her with both, but she simply refuses. She does nothing but eat and sleep. It’s like she has given up on life.”
Mutema emphasized that while she initially understood Mashunja’s grief and allowed her time to mourn, her patience had worn thin. “She is still young—only 30 years old—and has no children. She can start a new life, remarry if she wants to. I’ve tried to be a supportive mother-in-law, but I also have to think of my own well-being. I deserve better than to be taken advantage of.”
In response, Mashunja agreed that it was time for her to leave the house, stating that she had long desired to return to her parents’ home. “I am not supposed to continue staying in my mother-in-law’s house,” she told the court. “Her decision to involve the court makes things easier for me. I have stayed with her out of love and appreciation, but we cannot continue pretending that everything is fine when it is not.”
Mashunja admitted feeling trapped and suffocated during her stay, expressing relief that the matter had finally come to a head. “I am looking forward to starting a new chapter in my own space, where I can focus on my own well-being and happiness,” she added.
After hearing both sides, the magistrate dismissed Mutema’s application for a peace order. The ruling effectively leaves the two women to resolve their differences outside the courtroom. The decision highlights the complexities of familial relationships and the emotional strains that can arise in the aftermath of personal loss.
While the legal case is concluded, the personal journey for both women seems far from over as they each seek to move forward and rebuild their lives independently.