When surnames become vengeance tools

At last, a way to get back at irresponsible fathers has been found, changing a child’s surname.

A surname seems to have been turned into a payback weapon rather than identifying with one’s roots.

Divorced women and single mothers struggling to raise children will not hesitate to change surnames of their children in the belief that only providers deserve glorification.

Should surnames be changed as and when mothers wish? Does one’s surname have any bearing on their rights and upbringing? When is the appropriate time to change a child’s surname?

Justice Esmie Tembenu, board chairperson for Eye of the Child, says it is illegal to use surnames as a way of fighting irresponsible men.

“The Constitution clearly states that every child has the right to a family name. The same Constitution says every child has the right to know and be raised by both parents, meaning come what may, they should be known by their father’s name regardless of parents’ relationship.

“It, therefore, violates the child’s right to change his/her surname from that of his biological father. It also becomes confusing to them, especially at later stages,” she said.

Tembenu said the best way is for mothers to explain their children’s true identity and why they bear a surname whose owner is not present unlike cheating them about their paternity.

“If a mother wants to change a child’s surname to that of grandparents, there are legal procedures to be followed through the adoption process. That way, the biological parent loses all rights to the child and, likewise, the child ceases to have rights to know biological parents.

“If it’s an issue of lack of financial support from fathers, let those aggrieved report the issue to Child Justice Courts for assistance,” Tembenu said.

Agreeing with Tembenu is Pastor Tony Nyirenda who disclosed that the Bible is against changing a child’s surname.

“Any parent who changes a child’s surname breaks God’s laws that condemn lying and stealing. If you tell the child a different surname from his biological father’s, you are lying to the child,” said Nyirenda.

He further advised men to provide for their families quoting 1 Timothy 5:7, saying their lack of financial support to their children causes the surname dilemma.