Norton legislator Temba Mliswa is teetering on the edge of losing any legal ties to his son after his former partner, the Australia-based activist Susan Mutami, revealed that her new boyfriend is moving forward with plans to adopt the child.
Over the weekend, Mutami took to social media to share that she has found love anew, and this new partner is eager to take full parental responsibility for her children — including Tino, the son she shares with Mliswa.
“For the first time ever, I feel whole with this man. He’s amazing with your nephews in every way,” Mutami wrote. “He wants to officially adopt Tino as his own and have his name added to the birth certificate, since I’m currently the only parent listed.”
She further explained that under Australian federal law, Mliswa has no legal rights over Tino because he was never recorded on the birth certificate and has allegedly not contributed financially to the child’s care.
“Legally, Temba Mliswa isn’t on the birth certificate, isn’t recognized by Australian law, and has never provided support. It’s just been me and the government covering everything for the kids,” she added.
The activist, who has had a tumultuous relationship with the Zimbabwean MP, said she made multiple attempts to involve Mliswa in discussions about their son’s wellbeing, but to no avail.
“I know we have some family law experts here — I’d love to hear your thoughts before I take this to the Federal Courts,” she appealed to her followers.
For context, the couple’s past was riddled with conflicts and dramatic breakups, often playing out in public. Their relationship was marked by intense disagreements and accusations, leaving their son’s future uncertain amid the personal battles.
Despite Mutami’s efforts to engage Mliswa in co-parenting, he has remained distant, avoiding responsibility and leaving her to manage the situation largely on her own.
As the new partner steps up to adopt Tino, the story adds yet another twist to this ongoing saga.
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