Zuko Komisa
- The Gauteng High Court has dismissed a senior counsel’s claim that he was a sperm donor, ordering him to pay maintenance for his twin children.
- Acting Judge Ceri von Ludwig ruled that the man’s actions contradicted his claims and that the alleged “gamete donor agreement” lacked credibility.
- The court emphasised that the best interests of the children are paramount, condemning the man’s attempt to avoid his financial responsibilities.
The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has dismissed a senior counsel’s audacious attempt to avoid his parental duties by claiming he was merely a sperm donor to his twin children.
The man, who had twins via artificial fertilisation with a long-time lover, sought a court order to absolve him of all parental responsibilities after the children’s mother requested an increase in maintenance.
According to reports, he argued that their relationship was based on a “gamete donor agreement” and that he had no intention of becoming a father.
However, Acting Judge Ceri von Ludwig found the alleged agreement lacked credibility, noting the man had failed to produce any documentation to support his claim, despite his legal background.
The judge accepted the mother’s account, which was supported by evidence of the man’s ongoing contact and financial support for the children.
The judge ruled that his actions directly contradicted the idea of an anonymous sperm donation. Criticising the application as being against the best interests of the children, Judge von Ludwig stated that the Children’s Act prioritises the child’s welfare above all else.
She condemned his attempt to erase the father-child relationship for “financial convenience” as unacceptable.
The court dismissed the application, ordered him to pay legal costs, and affirmed his continued responsibility as a parent.
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