A pregnant woman's discovery of explicit text messages on her husband's phone has led to a dramatic divorce case in a Lusaka court, exposing shocking details about infidelity and financial neglect.
The Shocking Text Message Discovery
Rebecca Maela, a 30-year-old beauty therapist from Matero East, found herself confronting the ultimate betrayal when she accidentally discovered messages from her husband's alleged mistress. The pregnant woman told the Matero Local Court that she had her husband's phone when a message arrived from a female contact demanding increased payment for sexual services.
According to Rebecca's testimony, the message from the woman known as her husband's "side chick" was particularly brazen. The woman demanded that Elisha Silungwe stop coming with pocket change and start paying K300 (equivalent to N19,000) per round of sex, or risk never seeing her again.
Financial Neglect and Marital Struggles
Rebecca expressed her frustration with her husband's financial priorities, revealing that while he seemed to have money for extramarital affairs, he consistently failed to meet household obligations. "But whenever it's time to pay bills, my husband does not pay on time," she told the court. "The only thing he is good at is buying mealie-meal because he loves nshima."
The situation became more heartbreaking as Rebecca explained her current vulnerable state. Despite being heavily pregnant and facing medical complications, she stated that Elisha has never supported her financially, not even providing money for basic personal care items like hair products or lotion.
Court Proceedings and Defense
In his defense, 40-year-old Elisha Silungwe flatly denied the infidelity accusations and refused to accept the dissolution of his marriage. He claimed his wife was short-tempered and enjoyed proving him wrong in most situations. Regarding the incriminating text messages, Elisha stated, "I don't even know that girl she was chatting with."
Senior Magistrate Lewis Mumba, presiding over the case, acknowledged Rebecca's emotional state while reminding both parties about the true essence of marriage. "I understand you are pregnant and probably that's why you seem emotional. Marriage is a union that should bring happiness, not misery," Mumba stated.
The magistrate decided not to conclude the matter immediately, instead giving the couple time to attempt reconciliation. However, he made it clear that if no resolution is reached, he would grant the divorce. The case has been adjourned for further proceedings.
Rebecca's final words to the court captured her determination: "I am tired of this marriage. I would rather be pregnant and happy than stay with someone and end up regretting it." Her case highlights the difficult choices women face when dealing with infidelity and neglect during vulnerable periods of their lives.
