HARARE — Opposition politician Linda Masarira has called for the introduction of mandatory DNA testing at birth in Zimbabwe, saying it would protect men from being deceived into raising children who are not biologically theirs.

In a post shared on X, Masarira said some women were “forcing, manipulating, or even blackmailing” men into taking care of children from previous relationships or marriages without disclosing the truth.

“This is unfair. It places a heavy and unnecessary burden on men, both financially and emotionally,” she wrote. “It is also a form of deception that erodes trust, dignity, and mental health.”

Masarira linked the issue to the rising number of men in Zimbabwe taking their own lives, saying they face “immense pressure, societal expectations, economic hardships, and emotional struggles they are often not allowed to openly express.” She said being misled into raising another man’s child can push some beyond their emotional limits.

“If we are not careful, we will create a society where men feel trapped, voiceless, and hopeless,” she said. “The result will be devastating, and we will lose more fathers, brothers, and sons to depression and despair.”

She stressed that her call for DNA testing was not intended to divide families but to ensure “truth, fairness, and accountability” in society. According to Masarira, such testing would help protect men from deception, ensure biological fathers take responsibility, and uphold children’s rights to know their true lineage.

Masarira also noted that Zimbabwean law already requires biological fathers to care for their children and urged citizens to respect this provision. “Let’s stop normalizing emotional manipulation and start normalizing honesty,” she said.

“We cannot build strong families and communities on a foundation of lies,” Masarira added. “Let us strive for fairness for all women, men, and children alike.”

Masarira Calls for Mandatory DNA Testing to Protect Men from Deception

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