A LUSAKA man has narrated before the Matero Local Court how his wife subjects him to physical and emotional abuse to the extent of squeezing his ‘baby making’ factory everytime they have arguments.
Malilo Banda, 43, revealed that his wife, Mumbi Phiri, 39, of Chaisa compound, would allegedly seize and squeeze his testicles during arguments, inflicting excruciating pain.
Beyond this, Banda testified that Phiri would also bite him, leaving him with wounds and scars, and once caused a gruesome eye injury that required medical attention.
He also alleged that she would slap him and, in moments of heightened conflict, hand him a knife and demand he use it to end her life.
Furthermore, Phiri reportedly didn’t want her husband to act like his first name, Malilo, while she inflicted the pain.
“When I scream and plead for her to stop because it hurts, she shows no mercy and continues to bite me,” Banda told the court.
“But if I show no sign of pain and claim that it doesn’t hurt, she ceases her assault.”
Banda’s testimony came as Phiri sued him for divorce, accusing him of rebuking her, declaring her unfit as a wife, and showering her with insults.
Despite the alleged violence, Banda expressed an enduring love for his wife, clinging to the hope that their marriage could be salvaged.
He recounted seeking refuge with the Victim Support Unit after Phiri’s alleged violence escalated, even after she was previously arrested.
Banda also stated that his wife no longer allowed him intimacy or to sleep in the same bed, choosing to sleep in the sitting room.
In her defense, Phiri claimed Banda would insult her in front of their five children and use demeaning comments about her private parts, which she said left her humiliated.
She also accused Banda of propositioning a new tenant with K100 for sex.
When Senior Magistrate Lewis Mumba inquired about her desire for divorce, Phiri hesitated, expressing doubt and asking if there was a chance for reconciliation.
Magistrate Mumba warned Phiri about the dangers of her violent outbursts, specifically the squeezing of her husband’s genitals, stating it could one day lead to his death.
“Your marital struggles may feel overwhelming but it is imperative to understand that inflicting physical harm to each other is unacceptable,” he advised.
“Marriage is not a 50-50 game; it requires compromise, respect, and restraint.”
The matter has been adjourned to July 9, 2025, to allow for possible reconciliation.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba, May 10, 2025
