Binga man bashes sister over ARVs

Comment & Analysis
BY SILAS NKALA BINGA — A 34-year-old man from Manjolo area in Binga seriously assaulted his sister after she allegedly told him that he was too weak to fight with her because he was taking anti-retroviral drugs (ARVs).

Gideon Munkuli pleaded guilty to assault charges when he appeared before Binga magistrate, Stephen Ndlovu last week. Gideon was sentenced to 12 months in jail, four of which were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour.

The other eight months were also suspended on condition he performs 280 hours of community service at Manjolo primary school. The court heard that on January 6 this year, Gideon assaulted his sister Maggie Munkuli (37).

It is the state’s case that Maggie had a quarrel with Gideon’s nephew whose name was not given. Gideon intervened and assaulted Maggie with a log on the head and thigh several times over the matter.

Maggie was taken to Binga district hospital where a medical doctor confirmed that she sustained a depressed skull fracture and a report was made to the police leading to Gideon’s arrest.

When asked in court why he assaulted his sister, Gideon said Maggie had insulted him. “She said I am weak and useless,” said Gideon. “She said I cannot stand against her because I am taking ARV tablets.”

The court investigations proved that indeed Gideon was taking ARV drugs. ARVs are used in the treatment of HIV infection.Bruce Maphosa prosecuted.