Chicken dispute turns violent -A seemingly minor family disagreement over a chicken nearly turned fatal in Mount Darwin, after a man was viciously attacked by his brother and sister-in-law. The shocking incident, which left the victim with serious head injuries, culminated in the sentencing of the perpetrators at the Bindura Regional Magistrates’ Court.
Didymus Kora, the victim of the attack, is fortunate to be alive after a confrontation at his brother’s home escalated into violence. The altercation began when Didymus visited his brother, Stanley Kora, to confront him about the unauthorized taking of his road runner chicken—a prized local breed often kept for food or trade.
According to court testimony, the incident occurred on January 19. Didymus questioned his brother Stanley over the missing chicken, demanding an explanation. The question sparked a heated argument between the two siblings, which quickly degenerated into physical violence.
As tempers flared, Stanley began assaulting Didymus with open hands, landing multiple blows in front of stunned witnesses. The situation escalated dramatically when Stanley’s wife, Rachel Zhenjeni, intervened—not to stop the fight, but to join in. In a shocking turn, Zhenjeni picked up a brick and struck her brother-in-law with it on the back of the head.
Chicken Dispute Turns Violent: Mount Darwin Man Survives Brutal Attack by In-Laws
The force of the blow caused Didymus to collapse immediately. Alarmed by the severity of the assault, neighbours and witnesses quickly called for medical assistance. Didymus was rushed to a local hospital where he received emergency treatment for trauma to the occiput—the lower back part of the skull. Medical reports confirmed that the injury was potentially life-threatening, but he was stabilized after prompt intervention.
The case was brought before Magistrate Elisha Singano at the Bindura Regional Magistrates’ Court, where both Stanley and Rachel were charged in connection with the chicken attack. The prosecution was led by Edward Katsvairo, who outlined the brutal nature of the assault and the dangerous consequences of such domestic violence.
In delivering his judgment, Magistrate Singano condemned the violent conduct displayed by the couple. He emphasized that disputes, especially among family members, should never result in physical attacks—let alone one involving a weapon like a brick.
Rachel Zhenjeni was convicted of attempted murder and sentenced to three years in prison. However, one year of her sentence was suspended on the condition that she does not commit a similar offense within five years, leaving her with an effective two-year jail term. The court took into account the seriousness of her actions, particularly the use of a potentially lethal object during the assault.
Stanley Kora, who initiated the physical attack, was found guilty of assault. He was sentenced to three months in jail. Though his role in the attack was less severe than his wife’s, the magistrate noted that his actions triggered the chain of events that led to his brother’s injury.
The case has sparked public outcry in the Mount Darwin community, with many calling for greater awareness and peaceful conflict resolution within families. Community leaders have urged residents to seek help from elders or mediation committees when disputes arise, instead of resorting to violence.
“This incident is a stark reminder of how quickly things can spiral out of control,” said one local elder who declined to be named. “A simple conversation about a chicken should never have led to someone nearly losing their life.”
Domestic violence remains a pressing issue in many communities across Zimbabwe, often fueled by unresolved family tensions, poverty, and lack of conflict mediation skills. Authorities have continued to stress the importance of addressing minor disputes through lawful and non-violent means.
Meanwhile, Didymus Kora is said to be recovering steadily from his injuries. Though the physical wounds may heal with time, the emotional trauma from being attacked by close family members is likely to linger much longer.
The case serves as a sobering example of the devastating consequences of unchecked anger and poor communication within families. As justice has been served in this instance, it also offers an opportunity for reflection and reform in how domestic disputes are handled.
Source – Bulawayo24
