MBABANE– A 30-year-old father by the name of Thabo Shabangu has been found guilty and sentenced for physically abusing his young son with a stick for soiling sofas.
The assault occurred after Shabangu discovered his home soiled with human waste, leading to a fit of rage that resulted in him multiply assaulting the child.
The incident unfolded on March 3, 2025, when Shabangu entered his living room to a foul odour.
He quickly discovered that human waste had been smeared on sofas. In his confession to Principal Magistrate Fikile Nhlabatsi, Shabangu admitted to grabbing a stick and striking Sakhizwe multiple times, causing harm to the boy’s safety, health, and well-being. He was charged with contravening Section 77(1) of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act 15/2018.
During the court proceedings, Nhlabatsi inquired about the minor’s current living situation whereby Shabangu said he lived with him. In the matter, following the assault, social welfare officers intervened, arranging for the child to live with his mother.
Nhlabatis advises Shabangu, suggesting that he consider taking a DNA test, subtly alluding to the deeper cultural implications and traditional beliefs surrounding such behavior in Eswatini concerning paternity.
Shabangu was sentenced to a fine of E2000 or two years imprisonment.
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