Mbabane – A 49-year-old man from Msunduza has been arrested and charged with common assault for saying that her sister is gaining weight because she takes antiretroviral medication.
The accused, whose identity cannot be shared, appeared at the Mbabane Magistrates’ Court charged with contravening Section 77 of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act of 2018. On September 26, he allegedly insulted and further threatened his sister, who also cannot be revealed, with vulgar and demeaning language.
According to court documents, the accused said, “Ukhuluphaliswa ngulamaphilisi eligciwane lowadlako,” which translates to “You are gaining weight because of the pills you take for the virus you contracted.”
He further called her names, allegedly saying, “Ungumtsakatsi usebentisa umutsi,” meaning, “You are a witch who uses muti.”
In addition to the insults, the accused is said to have issued a serious threat. The words on the charge sheet cannot be repeated. In a shock, the court heard that the complainant feared for her life following the incident, prompting her to report the matter to the police, leading to the accused’s arrest.
The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was granted bail fixed at E1,000 but under very strict conditions.
He was ordered not to commit any offence while the matter is still pending, not to interfere with the complainant either directly or indirectly, and to maintain peace with her at all times. Furthermore, he must present himself to the court whenever required to do so.
The magistrate emphasised that any violation of these conditions would lead to the revocation of bail. The matter was adjourned pending further hearing as investigations continue.
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