Judge pokes holes into Hughes's initial plea during sentencing proceedings

Self-confessed child killer Amber Lee Hughes maintains that she was not responsible for the decision to plead not guilty to all charges brought against her.

Hughes was convicted of the rape and murder of her former partner’s four-year-old daughter, Nada Jane Challita.

During the trial, the former pre-school teacher pleaded not guilty to murder and two counts of rape, stating that the decision had been made on the advice of her previous counsel.

On Friday, her defence concluded its re-examination following cross-examination by the State at the Johannesburg High Court.

Presiding Judge Richard Mkhabela sought clarity on aspects of Hughes’ testimony, particularly regarding her initial plea before what he described as her late submissions.

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“So, who indicated the possibility of 20 years to you?” Mkhabela asked.

“Ms. Ives informed me that that was the conclusion of the discussion she had with Ms. Lisa Davies, my prosecutor,” Hughes responded.

“So you were willing to be sentenced for 20 years but not found guilty in respect of this?” the judge continued.

“Yes, my Lord, and at that time there were another two charges,” she said.

As the proceedings continued, the visibly distressed mother of the slain child left the courtroom as Hughes recounted the events of 23 January 2023 at the Glenvista apartment she shared with Elie Challita.

Mkhabela also questioned Hughes about the moments leading up to the child’s death.

“But she must have fought for her life. She must have tried to get up, isn’t that correct?” he asked.

“My Lord, yes. There was a small struggle, yes, my Lord. I do remember there was a small struggle,” Hughes replied.

“And even when she was fighting, there was no patience to get up and talk with her?” Mkhabela asked.

The State is expected to present its witness on 12 March as sentencing proceedings continue.