Man in Court Over Alleged Assault of Elderly Partner’s Father in Family Dispute
BULAWAYO – A 28-year-old man, Milton Mpala, appeared before the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court on charges of physically assaulting his partner’s elderly father during a domestic dispute.
The case, heard by Magistrate Abdenico Ndebele, is rooted in an incident that occurred on January 25, 2025, at the complainant Peter Mnguni’s home in the city’s Mzilikazi suburb.
The prosecution told the court that Mpala, who is in a relationship with Peter’s 58-year-old daughter, Sithembile Mnguni, resides at the property where the alleged offense took place.
It is alleged that Mpala entered Peter’s bedroom at approximately 1:00 AM and assaulted him with an unidentified object after being reprimanded for causing a disturbance.
During court proceedings, Mpala pleaded not guilty to the charges. In his defense, he claimed he was attempting to break up a fight between Sithembile and her father.
According to Mpala, both individuals were intoxicated, and he was dragged into the scuffle. He admitted to slapping Peter but argued it was to protect Sithembile, whom he alleged had a black eye from the altercation.
Sithembile Mnguni’s testimony contradicted Mpala’s account. She informed the court that she had been in a relationship with Mpala for two years but alleged that he was often violent, especially when intoxicated.
On the night in question, she said she woke to find Mpala attacking her father in his bedroom, with other family members trying to intervene.
Sithembile further accused Mpala of damaging her belongings and forcing the continuation of their relationship against her wishes.
The complainant, Peter Mnguni, supported his daughter’s account, telling the court that Mpala assaulted him with a stick, causing injuries to his eye and leg.
Peter requested the issuance of a peace order for his safety.
Mpala has been remanded in custody pending the continuation of his trial.
