The eldest son of Zimbabwe’s former First Lady Grace Mugabe, Russel Goreraza, finds himself entangled in legal proceedings for neglecting to meet child maintenance obligations. Goreraza, aged 40, has amassed outstanding payments totaling US$7,500 (approximately R140,000) over a three-month period.
Russel Goreraza stood before the Concession Magistrates’ Court, facing charges under Section 23 of the Maintenance Act Chapter 05:09, which pertains to non-compliance with maintenance orders.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) issued a statement, affirming, “He was arraigned before Concession Magistrates’ Court facing charges of contravening Section 23 of the Maintenance Act Chapter 05:09, failing to comply with a maintenance order.”
Goreraza, representing himself in court, requested an extension to secure legal representation. Consequently, the court adjourned the proceedings to May 28, 2024.
In a detailed statement, the NPAZ outlined the case: “Russel Goreraza (40) was arraigned before the Concession Magistrates’ Court facing charges of contravening Section 23 of the Maintenance Act Chapter 05:09, failing to comply with a maintenance order. On the 4th of January 2024, the accused appeared before the Concession Magistrates Court and was directed to pay USD 2500 or ZWL equivalent per month as maintenance for his child. Allegedly, the accused defaulted on payments from January to March 2024, accumulating a debt of USD 7,500 as of March 31, 2024. The accused, appearing as a self-actor, requested a postponement to seek legal representation, and the matter was remanded to May 28, 2024.”
In January 2024, Goreraza faced legal action initiated by the mother of his child, resulting in a maintenance order requiring him to pay USD 2,500 (approximately ZAR 47,000) monthly or its equivalent in Zimbabwean currency as child maintenance.
However, Goreraza purportedly failed to meet these obligations from January to March 2024, leading to the accrued debt of USD 7,500 (ZAR 140,000).
The NPAZ underscored the gravity of the situation, asserting that non-compliance with maintenance orders constitutes a criminal offense carrying substantial penalties.
“Maintenance orders are obligatory, not discretionary. Failure to adhere not only disrespects the court but also jeopardizes the welfare of the child,” emphasised an NPAZ spokesperson.
Observers await the outcome of Goreraza’s quest for legal representation and anticipate potential negotiations for a payment plan to settle his arrears.
Scheduled for May 28, 2024, the trial is poised to attract considerable public and media interest, given the prominence of the individuals involved.
Public sentiment varies, with some expressing empathy towards Goreraza, while others admonish him for neglecting his parental duties.
“It’s a lamentable situation for all parties, particularly the child,” remarked a local resident. “Goreraza must assume accountability and fulfill his obligations.”
As the legal saga unfolds, it serves as a microcosm of broader societal concerns surrounding child maintenance and legal compliance within Zimbabwe.
Source iHarare
