Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
THE bully tenant, who made the headlines yesterday after being arrested for allegedly cyber bullying his landlord, appeared in court yesterday.
Martin Tinashe Mtandi appeared before magistrate Isheanesu Matova who released him on US$100 bail and ordered him not to interfere with witnesses.
The complainant is McDonald Togara, who is a Property Consultant, employed by Pam Golding Properties.
The court heard that on July 26 last year, Mtandi applied for residential accommodation at Togara’s flat at Sentosa Gardens, Mabelreign, Harare, through Agent Lawis Matindise.
Togara accepted the application and both parties entered into a lease agreement.
Mtandi moved in on August 1 and was also supposed to pay a tenant’s deposit fee of US$750.
The agreement also stated that the lease could be terminated by either party upon giving three months’ notice in writing to the other party or by mutual agreement.
On October 17 this year, Mtandi advised Togara via WhatsApp that he was going to leave the apartment on October 30, which was contrary to the lease agreement.
He moved out and left the walls soiled, a malfunctioning geyser and a deformed toilet seat.
Togara incurred the expenses of repairing the house.
Mtandi later demanded his deposit fee of US$750 but Togara refused to refund him citing breach of contract.
Mtandi then sent a threatening message to Togara that he would blast him on social media.
The State claims that Mtandi fulfilled his promise and posted on Facebook, in a group called ‘Name And Shame Them’ as well as on the Pam Golding website.
Mtandi also attached Togara’s picture to the false messages, tarnishing his image.
Takudzwa Jambawo prosecuted.
Abel Ndooka
