The Matala Local Court has heard a case in which a woman from Ha-Leqele is seeking to evict her adult son, alleging persistent disrespect, theft, and abusive behaviour within her home.
’Matiiso Ratabane approached the court last week requesting legal assistance to remove her son, Tšepo Ratabane, from the family residence. She submitted that his conduct has made the home environment unsafe and intolerable.
According to ’Matiiso, her son frequently insults her and shows no regard for her authority as the homeowner.
She also alleged that he steals household items and valuables, contributing to ongoing tension and financial strain.
’Matiiso further testified that efforts to resolve the matter within the family had failed, leaving her with no option but to seek legal intervention.
“I can no longer live peacefully in my own home,” she said.
The court heard that Tšepo allegedly does not contribute to the household and consumes available food without consideration for others. ’Matiiso also accused him of selling building materials intended for a rental project, including 10 bags of cement and bricks, for M50.
In addition, she claimed that he sold a car wheel, an aluminium aerial pole and dismantled parts of the family television for resale. These actions have resulted in significant financial losses and undermined her plans to improve the family’s living conditions, she said.
’Matiiso told the court that she has been forced to take extreme measures to protect her belongings. She now keeps essential items, including her refrigerator, locked in her bedroom, leaving the space overcrowded and uncomfortable.
Despite owning the entire house, she said, she is effectively confined to one room due to fear of further theft and damage. She described the situation as mentally distressing and said it has eroded her sense of safety.
’Matiiso also alleged that her son abuses drugs, often disappears for days and returns home only to verbally attack her.
aHis behaviour, shedded, has become increasingly aggressive and unpredictable, making cohabitation impossible.
’Matiiso indicated that she intends to call a witness to support her claims but requested additional time to do so. Court President, Mathuntsi Ntšala, granted the request and postponed the matter to May 12 for continuation of the hearing.
