In a move that has shaken the corridors of Kaizer Chiefs, one of the club's top executives has filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences.
The executive, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is one of the children of club chairman Kaizer Motaung, and their marriage has been a well-known fixture in the footballing world.
The news of the divorce came to light after the executive filed for a decree of divorce in the Johannesburg High Court last week. In the court papers, seen by Sunday World, the executive stated that their marriage has "irretrievably broken down" and that there is no reasonable prospect of its restoration.
The executive, who is the applicant in the divorce proceedings, cited ambitions, goals, and life-pursuits that have grown in divergent directions as the primary reasons for the breakdown of their marriage.
"The marriage relationship between the parties has irretrievably broken down and has reached such a stage of disintegration that there is no reasonable prospect for its restoration," read the court papers.
The executive and their partner, who also cannot be named for legal reasons, were married out of community of property with the inclusion of the accrual system.
The executive has also applied for a court order for the equitable calculation and distribution of the accruals of their respective estates.
"Wherefore the plaintiff claims a decree of divorce; a calculation of the accrual of the respective estates of the parties and the consequent sharing of same," the court papers read.
The couple has also agreed to share residency of their children and to contribute equally to the finances related to their maintenance. This includes paying for food, medical aid, clothes, school fees, uniforms, extracurricular activities, school transport, birthday gifts, and entertainment.
The executive has challenged their spouse to indicate within a period of 10 days whether or not they wish to oppose the application for the decree of divorce and division of the estate.
"The plaintiff hereby informs the defendant further that if she disputes the claim and wishes to defend the action, the defendant shall, within 10 (ten) days of service upon the defendant of this summons, file with the registrar of this court, notice of the defendant’s intention to defend," read the papers.
The executive has also informed their spouse that if they fail to file and serve notice, judgment as claimed may be given against them without further notice.
"If, having filed and served such notice, the defendant fails to plead, except to make an application to strike out or counter-claim, judgment may be given against the defendant," read the papers.
The divorce proceedings have come as a surprise to many, as the executive and their spouse were seen as a strong and stable couple. However, the breakdown of their marriage is a reminder that even the most seemingly perfect relationships can face challenges.
The executive's decision to file for divorce is a personal one, and it is important to respect their privacy and the privacy of their family during this difficult time. However, while the details of the divorce are still unfolding, it is clear that the marriage has reached its 'injury time'.
