A 31-year-old Opposition Member of Parliament was arrested Wednesday after allegedly assaulting his reputed wife and a four-year-old child during a domestic dispute at their residence in Moruca, North West District, according to police.
Police said the incident occurred at approximately 5:00 p.m. when an argument between the parliamentarian and his reputed wife escalated into a physical confrontation.
According to investigators, the MP allegedly assaulted a four-year-old child during the altercation, prompting the woman to intervene.
The suspect then allegedly dealt the woman several blows and pushed her to the ground, causing her to strike her head and briefly lose consciousness.
Police further stated that the woman alleged the parliamentarian subsequently armed himself with a chopper and advanced toward her in a threatening manner, causing her to fear for her life and personal safety.
The victim later reported the matter to the Acquero Police Station and was escorted for medical treatment. The suspect was subsequently arrested and remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Residents in the community who spoke on condition of anonymity described the incident as consistent with what they claimed was a longstanding pattern of abusive behaviour.
Several residents alleged that the MP frequently became verbally and physically abusive toward his spouse after consuming alcohol and that concerns about his conduct had been raised within the community on numerous occasions.
Police said investigations into the matter remain ongoing.
The opposition has not issued a public statement on the allegations or the arrest of its representative.