A man in Harare has asked the court for protection from his wife, accusing her of putting urine in his food and performing harmful rituals that affected his health. Artwell Matemera filed for a protection order against his wife, Winny Johannes, after finding several bottles with unknown substances hidden in their wardrobe. Matemera told the court these discoveries came after he started experiencing physical problems, including sexual dysfunction, which he linked to his wife’s actions.
When Matemera confronted his wife about the urine in his food, she allegedly responded with violence. Johannes denied the accusations, saying the bottles contained herbal mixtures for her traditional healing work. She also accused Matemera of being unfaithful and claimed he stole her undergarments to give to other women.
The conflict between the couple has reportedly turned violent. Matemera presented knife wounds as proof of domestic abuse. Both accused each other of sexual misconduct. Johannes claimed Matemera abandoned her during her pregnancy with twins, while Matemera said she purposely damaged their intimate relationship.
Magistrate Meenal Narotam issued a temporary protection order for Matemera but highlighted that the couple’s problems go beyond the court’s reach. The magistrate recommended that both seek counseling and professional help to resolve their issues.
