Chivhu Killer Mother Sentenced to Four Life Terms in Jail for Killing Her Four Children
A Chivhu mother, Emelda Marizani, has been sentenced to four terms of life imprisonment for the gruesome murder of her four minor children in 2020. The High Court’s decision has sent shockwaves throughout the country.
How She Killed Her Kids
Marizani had killed her children by slitting their throats, claiming that she committed the act out of love, fearing that her children would suffer abuse and mistreatment at the hands of their stepmother.
During the trial, Marizani admitted to encouraging her children to consume rat poison before instructing them to sleep. She later slit their throats with a knife, hoping to spare them from a life of misery without her.
Mental Disorder Claims
Justice Munamato Mutevedzi dismissed her claims of mental disorder and diminished responsibility, finding her guilty of four counts of murder. The judge sentenced her to four life sentences in jail, emphasizing the gravity of the crime and its impact on the community.
Why She Killed Her Kids
Marizani claimed that her actions were a result of her marital problems with her husband, Lameck Brande. She accused him of being abusive and womanizing, alleging that he had become physically violent and distant after their financial situation improved.
Marizani said that the breaking point was when she found out that her husband’s mistress was pregnant with a baby boy, and she had four girls. In an interview with the national broadcaster, ZBC, days after the killings, Marizani justified her actions, saying it was payback for her husband’s infidelity. She also claimed that she was jealous of her husband’s love for her children.
Marizani’s sentence has left many in shock and disbelief, as the community struggles to come to terms with the horrific tragedy. Her actions have caused immense pain and suffering to her children and the community, highlighting the need for better mental health support and awareness. The case serves as a reminder that domestic violence and infidelity can have severe consequences, and seeking help is crucial to prevent tragic outcomes.