MASTER of the High Court, Eldard Mutasa, has moved to clear the air over inheritance laws, stressing that civil partners — popularly known as mapoto or amapoto — cannot inherit from their deceased partners.
His remarks come after widespread misinformation on social media caused panic among legally married couples and fueled family disputes.
In an interview with Zimpapers Television Network, Mutasa explained that the confusion stems from a misreading of Section 41 of the Marriages Act, which recognises civil partnerships as relationships between unmarried adults living together as husband and wife.
While the law acknowledges their existence, it does not grant them the same rights as a legally married spouse.
“Civil partners are not entitled to inheritance at all. They have their own place in the law but nothing elevates them to the status of a surviving spouse,” Mutasa emphasized.
The Master clarified that courts only consider civil partnerships in cases of separation or death to determine ownership of property jointly acquired during the relationship. However, partners do not automatically inherit the entire estate.
“This is where the misunderstanding comes in. People think that staying with someone for three months automatically makes you a legal wife or husband. That is completely false,” he said.
Mutasa warned that the spread of false information has emboldened some individuals to ridicule and harass legally married spouses, even questioning the value of marriage certificates. He urged citizens to seek proper legal advice before making assumptions.
“There is nothing like a civil partner inheriting property. Those being harassed should come forward. We are here to assist the community and make sure everyone understands the law,” he said.
