Harare, Zimbabwe — Opposition politician Linda Masarira has sparked controversy by advocating for a new law that mandates DNA paternity testing at birth. She argues that this measure could protect men from being deceived into taking financial and emotional responsibility for children who may not be their biological offspring.
Masarira’s Plea Born of Concern
Masarira shared her perspective in a post on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the prevalence of situations where men are emotionally manipulated or blackmailed into accepting parenthood. She emphasised that such deception is not only unjust but also takes a heavy toll on men’s mental health, dignity, and financial stability.
She went further to tie this issue to a grave concern for Zimbabwe’s rising male suicide rates—a crisis she believes is compounded when men are burdened with parental obligations under false pretences.
“When men are forced into parenthood through deceit, it chips away at their trust in society and pushes some to despair,” she warned.
Not About Creating Division
Masarira was quick to clarify that her proposal—though bold—is not intended to sow division between men and women. Instead, she casts it as a measure of truth, fairness, and accountability.
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She further argued that Zimbabwean law already obliges biological fathers to support their children. Her proposal seeks to reinforce that principle by ensuring parentage is verified early, rather than assumed.
Mixed Reactions Spark Broader Debate
Masarira’s stance has ignited spirited discussion online. Some support her call for transparency, believing that early DNA confirmation can prevent emotional trauma and financial disputes down the line. Others, however, caution that making such testing compulsory could destabilise relationships, undermine privacy, and cause unintended social rifts.
The Bigger Picture: Law, Gender, and Mental Health
Her proposal has opened a broader conversation in Zimbabwe about modern family law, gender dynamics, and the intersection between mental health and legal rights. Questions now being asked include: Is it fair to require everyone to prove parentage legally at birth? Or should emphasis instead be placed on consent, trust, and open communication within families?
